Symmetry and Spinal Health

On countless occasions, I've had patients come to me stating that they "don't feel straight".  In my line of work, as a chiropractor Chicago, this of course is a reference to their structural or spinal alignment.  Patients are acutely aware that something is "off" and need help a) confirming this, and b) rectifying it.  There are many reasons why your body may not be perfectly symmetrical such as leg length inequalities, structural abnormalities and/or muscular imbalances.  If you notice imbalances we can help. Using a combination of techniques we can assist in restoring your body back to balance.

SELF CHECK
Stand in front of the mirror and assess your symmetry. First, close your eyes and march on the spot for 2 or 3 seconds. Now stop marching, put your feet shoulder width apart and check the following:
1. Is your head shifted to one side?
2. Are your ears level? Can you see both ears equally?
3. Are your shoulders the same height?
4. Can you draw a straight line down from between your eyes, through the nose, center of your chin, sternum, belly button and down to between your feet?
5. Do your arms hang evenly at your sides? Is there equal space between your arms and body?
6. Do your knee caps face straight ahead?
7. Do your feet point ahead equally? Does one foot flare out more?
Of course there are natural asymmetries that are not significant but if you notice any imbalances from the above observations please check with us to see if it can be corrected. The more you are misaligned the more damage you are doing to your body. Just like a car with misaligned wheels, left unchecked for a long time it can lead to significant wear and tear. Be good to your body and it will return the favor.  And if you have any concerns over your alignment, visit your chiropractor in Chicago for a thorough evaluation and, if necessary, treatment to get you “realigned”.

Essential Nutrition for Healthy Lifestyles

There have been numerous breakthroughs in the study of nutritional supplements and natural herbs, and much research published indicating that their curative and regenerative effects on human beings. Doctors, scientists, Chicago chiropractors and health authorities are realizing the necessity for people of all ages to ensure adequate intake of these nutrients. Health requires all the body's building blocks to maintain optimal function and long life.
Certain supplements are considered essential for all people who consume a traditional North American diet. This is because our model of the "ideal" diet is off the mark. We, as a whole, consume too much red meat, too much saturated fat, too many processed or "fast" foods, too much sugar, and not enough fiber, vegetables, fruits, or essential fats. In fact, most of the diseases which are prevalent in our society, yet not in others, are related to our "unbalanced" diet.
• A good multivitamin and multi-mineral is essential. Total body health requires adequate antioxidants, vitamins and minerals which stimulate proper tissue growth and aid in the repair and maintenance of damaged cells in the body. Look for standardized products with high quality ingredients, proven effectiveness, and superior research behind them. One example are the products manufactured by Metagenics.
• Essential fatty acids (specifically Omega-3's) are sadly lacking in our diet. Absence of EFA's is largely responsible for increased risk of cancer, heart disease, high cholesterol, immune suppression and poor mental processing. Try fish oil (cold water, especially), borage oil, or flaxseed oil.
• Fiber is another dietary element found in low concentration in the diet of most Americans. Fiber helps food move through the digestive tract and assists the body in eliminating waste. Low fiber can result in constipation, reduced enzyme production, and build up of toxic bi-products of digestion. Increased fiber can reduce the risk of certain cancers, atherosclerosis, and digestive disturbances.
Much is spoken about supplements and nutriceuticals. It is my opinion that these are excellent resources for persons suffering from particular health conditions. For example, degenerative joint disease (AKA: osteoarthritis) benefits from the use of glucosamine sulfate and MSM (methyl sulfonyl methane), two essential products normally produced by the body, of whose production tends to wane as we age.
For the healthy patient not dealing with specific health conditions, the utilization of "functional foods" is preferred. Functional foods are typically whole, unprocessed, natural foods which have high nutrient value. An example is broccoli which is reasonably high in Vitamins A, C, the B series, and minerals (Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, and Zinc). In addition, being "cruciferous vegetables", broccoli has been shown to be a faily potent anti-cancer agent.

I hope this helps. Feel free to contact me with additional questions or to schedule an appointment at The Chicago Body Works at (773) 248-4229.

Yours in health,
Dr Halliday, Chicago chiropractor