How does having a sense of “well being” affect your health? And your quality of life?

          Recent studies have focused on how each of us perceives our “Quality of Life” and our overall healthiness.  Does our health affect our quality of life?  Of course it does.  Poor health can shorten and end our life.  But can our sense of “Well-Being” positively affect our health and actually make us healthier?  YES!  It is the old question of mind over matter, the power of positive thinking and looking on the bright side.  As it happens, it works! 

The defined elements of well-being are:

·Having supportive relationships (Maybe the most important factor)

·Positive thoughts, emotions and moods

·Being satisfied with life

·Being optimistic and having good self esteem

·Income correlates only modestly with well-being.  In general, associations between income and well-being are stronger for those at lower economic levels (In developed countries)  

Some of the benefits of a strong sense of well-being are:

·50% less likely to be admitted to a hospital or visit an emergency room

·Much less likely to spend money on medications and overall healthcare (About 60%)

·50% less likely to have a heart attack

These studies shed light on factors that can affect the overall health of our aging population and help reduce healthcare costs through mental enlightenment.  When basic necessities are met, the cost of healthcare decreases.  Moreover, when mental health brings about positive attitudes, the savings become greater. 

X-ray Technology Advances

Last Saturday, Dr. Myren attended a seminar discussing the latest advancements in diagnostic imaging. (It was better than it sounds). 
The focus was mainly on spinal, back and neck conditions (MRI's, CAT scans, and "regular" X-rays).
The interesting points were how new technology, specifically computers, have enhanced the quality of the images produced;  Similar to how digital cameras can produce pictures that can be enhanced and manipulated.  Also exciting is the steady decline in the cost of the equipment needed.  Just like our home computers and phones, over time, we get better technology at a cheaper cost. 
Earlier detection of various conditions through better imaging will improve treatment outcomes and save lives.  That's NEAT!

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis (Heel/Foot Pain)

This is a common ailment for runners, but anyone can develop Plantar Fasciitis.  The first signs and symptoms are usually foot pain with difficulty walking when getting out of bed in the morning.  The pain resolves after walking around a little.  Plantar Fasciitis pain results from excessive tension of the foot connective tissue (the fascia).  Chronic foot and heel pain can cause the development of heel bone spurs, not good! 

Chiropractic adjustments to the foot and ankle can help restore proper foot mechanics.  Also the use of ice, stretching and shoe cushion inserts help to reduce and relieve pains.  Ignoring the problem is not the answer, take control and feel better. 

"The human foot is a masterpiece of engineering and a work of art" -Leonardo Da Vinci

We are working for YOU!

We recently signed the staff up for a continuing education seminar:  In May, we will be attending the Parker Seminar being held in San Diego.  As we are all excited to learn what is new and exciting in the world of Chiropractic we found it extra interesting that Dr. Fabrizio Mancini, president of Parker University in Dallas, Texas will be on the Dr. Phil Show this week speaking about a new initiative that Parker University and Dr. Fabrizio Mancini have launched in 2012 to bring the chiropractic message to prospective patients that have not realized the benefits of chiropractic care.  Tune in for more information!

How is GOOD SLEEP, or lack of, Effecting YOU!

Some recent sleep studies reveal how sleep effects our overall health.
Ironically, most people are not good at judging how well they actually sleep and how they perform with poor sleep.
On average, adults need 7-9 hours of sleep per night to feel fully rested and to function at their mental or physical best. Interestingly, newborns sleep 18 hours per day.
Why do we need sleep?

1. Time for physical restoration and healing.
2. Memory consolidation; the brain creates room for new data.

Tips for a good nights sleep!

• Set regular bed times and wake-up times
• Room should be dark, cool and quiet
• Do NOT read, text, phone, watch, tv in bed
• No exercise within 3 hours of bedtime
• Put cell phone on "Silent"
• Naps during the day are good

A poor nights sleep can cause:

• Impaired decision making and memory
• Decreased appetite control (You are hungrier)
• Mood Swings and Depression
• Lowered metabolism
• Lowered pain threshold causing more symptoms and increased blood pressure