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Researching Chiropractic: Back & Pelvic Pain, Muscle Weakness

Chiropractic clinical case histories have been a regular feature of our patient newsletter since its inception. There seems to be no limit to the health problems that respond positively to chiropractic care. How many people suffering, reliant on medication and drugs, and facing a life of limitation could be helped by chiropractic care? 

Probably most of them.

sinus infections

Back & Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy

A 35-year-old pregnant woman developed back and pelvic pain in the later stages of her pregnancy. The pain was strong enough to interfere with her sleep and daily activities. Rather than taking medication (which can be risky during pregnancy), she visited a chiropractor. She received gentle spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and simple home exercises designed for pregnancy. She was also given tips for better posture and movement during her day.

After six weeks of care, the pain dropped dramatically, and she was able to sleep better and move more comfortably. This case highlighted that chiropractic care can be a safe and natural option for pregnant women dealing with back or pelvic pain.(1)

Muscle Weakness

A 35-year-old woman with a rare condition that causes muscle weakness (called spinal muscular atrophy) was suffering from painful jaw problems that made it hard to eat and speak. Because her body was already physically weak, regular medical or dental treatments weren’t ideal.

She went to a chiropractor, who used gentle hands-on treatments, soft tissue work (like massage), and specific exercises to help relax and strengthen the muscles around her jaw.

After a short course of care, her jaw pain got much better and her ability to open and move her mouth improved. This case showed that even people with complicated health issues can benefit from personalized, gentle chiropractic care.(2)

Do you know someone with any of these issues?

Please encourage them to make an appointment with us!

(517) 627-4547

 

  1. Bernard, M.N., & Kirk, J.A. (2016). Chiropractic management of pregnancy-related lumbopelvic pain: a case study. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 15(2), 129-133
  2. Visscher, C.M., & Lobbezoo, F. (2009). Conservative care of temporomandibular joint disorder in a 35-year-old patient with spinal muscular atrophy type III: a case study. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 8(4), 187-192.

Eating with the Seasons: Nourishing Spring Foods

As the earth awakens from winter, spring brings fresh vitality not only to the soil but to our bodies. According to the teachings of Dr. Weston A. Price, traditional cultures thrived by eating seasonally-honoring the cycles of nature and consuming nutrient-dense foods available at the time. In spring, this means embracing lighter, cleansing foods while still ensuring we receive the fats and minerals needed for deep nourishment.

Spring is the perfect time to incorporate leafy greens like dandelion, nettles, watercress, and arugula into the diet. These bitter greens stimulate the liver and aid detoxification after a heavier winter diet. Traditional diets often included wild spring greens as tonics, and modern nutritional research supports their richness in chlorophyll, magnesium, and antioxidants. Lightly steaming or sautéing them in butter or ghee-a traditional fat praised by Dr. Price-enhances the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K (1).

Pasture-raised eggs, another springtime staple, are particularly nutrient-rich this time of year as hens begin laying more frequently. Eggs from chickens allowed to forage on spring grasses contain higher levels of omega-3s and fat-soluble vitamins. Raw or cultured dairy products from grass-fed cows also reflect seasonal improvements in nutrition and can provide beneficial probiotics when fermented.

Lamb is a classic spring meat, traditionally consumed in many cultures during this season. It is a rich source of heme iron, zinc, and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), especially when the animals graze on fresh pasture. Bone broth from lamb or poultry is also supportive to the digestive system as the body transitions to lighter fare.

Finally, sprouted grains and legumes are more digestible and nutrient-available than their unsprouted counterparts and were traditionally soaked or fermented before consumption. This mimics natural springtime germination and is in line with the wisdom Price documented from indigenous diets (1).

By following the rhythms of nature and embracing seasonal foods, we align our diets with traditional wisdom and modern nutritional science. Spring invites us to lighten up without losing the deep nourishment our ancestors prized.

4.Fallon, S., & Enig, M.G. (1999). Nourishing Traditions: The Cookbook that Challenges Politically Correct Nutrition and the Diet Dictocrats. Washington, D.C.: NewTrends Publishing.

How Chiropractic Care Affects Digestion, Immunity, and Hormones

Most people don’t think about their spine when dealing with digestive issues, fatigue, or hormone imbalances. But the spine does far more than support the body’s structure-it’s the main channel through which the nervous system sends signals. When that communication breaks down, a range of problems can appear: slowed digestion, weakened immune response, and hormone irregularities.

One patient-a young woman-originally came in for back discomfort. Over time, without changing her diet or routine, she noticed her digestion improved. Bloating disappeared, stomach aches subsided, and she felt more energetic. The only shift in her life was regular chiropractic adjustments. Her experience reflects what many have found: when nervous system function is restored, the body begins to regulate itself more efficiently.

The nervous system influences everything from intestinal movement to immune system readiness to hormone release. Spinal misalignments, known in chiropractic as subluxations, can interfere with these vital signals. They don’t always cause pain but disrupt how the body works. With gentle adjustments, chiropractors aim to restore that flow, allowing the body to function as intended. (1)

Another example involved a father of three who constantly battled colds and sinus congestion. After a few months of chiropractic care, he noticed he wasn’t getting sick-even when his kids brought home the usual school-time bugs. His immune system seemed to be working more effectively. That shift wasn’t about boosting anything artificially but clearing the nervous system so it could do its job without interference.

Hormonal changes are often mentioned, too. Some women report a more regular menstrual cycle after beginning care. Others say they sleep better, feel calmer, or experience more emotional balance. These aren’t promises-they’re observations from people who notice what happens when their bodies start communicating better.

People often come in expecting one thing to improve and are surprised when something else shifts, too. It’s not a coincidence. The body is connected in ways that aren’t always obvious, and removing pressure from the nervous system can have a ripple effect on digestion, immunity, and hormone balance.

The body is built to heal and self-regulate. Chiropractic care doesn’t add anything new to the system; it simply helps remove what’s getting in the way.

Want to Experience Healing in Real Life?

Call us to make an appointment. We’d love to see you! 517.627.4547

  1. Kent, C. (1996). Models of vertebral subluxation: A review. Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research, 1(1), 1-7.

Why Every Pregnant Woman Should See a Chiropractor

During pregnancy, many women have trouble sleeping, pressure in the hips, and occasional sciatica that can make everyday movement uncomfortable. Some discover that visiting a chiropractor brings significant relief. One mother described how, after a few visits, her body felt more balanced, her discomfort eased, and her sleep improved. She noticed she could breathe more deeply and move more freely, even late in the third trimester.

As the baby grows, posture shifts, ligaments loosen, and the spine compensates. These changes are part of the body’s natural preparation for birth, but they can also create stress in the spine and nervous system. Chiropractic adjustments help reduce that stress, allowing the body to adapt more comfortably.

Pregnant women often report feeling more centered and stable after an adjustment. Many say their hips feel better aligned, and their belly carries more evenly. Others notice improved sleep, fewer aches, and a stronger sense of connection to their changing bodies. Rather than focusing only on relief from discomfort, chiropractic care supports the body’s ability to function well throughout pregnancy.

A key benefit is the support chiropractic provides to the nervous system. The spine protects the communication pathways between the brain and the body. The function can be affected when these pathways are irritated or under pressure. By gently adjusting the spine, chiropractors help restore proper communication, which may improve digestion, energy levels, and overall ease.

Some women also find that regular care encourages better fetal positioning. One mother shared that her baby had settled heavily on one side in her third trimester. After a few targeted adjustments, the baby shifted and remained more balanced. She described the change as feeling “lighter,” as if her body had made space where needed.

Research supports these experiences. A 2007 review published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that chiropractic care during pregnancy may reduce back pain, improve overall comfort, and even lessen the need for pain medications during labor (1).

Chiropractic care during pregnancy isn’t only about addressing discomfort-it’s about helping the body work the way it was designed to. As the body makes room for new life, chiropractic can support that process by keeping the spine and nervous system clear and responsive.

Every pregnant woman deserves to feel strong, supported, and in tune with her body. Gentle, thoughtful adjustments can make a meaningful difference in how a woman experiences her pregnancy and prepares for birth. For many, that difference is not just physical but deeply reassuring.

Make an Appoinment today!

Call us to make an appointment. We’d love to see you! 517.627.4547

  1. Borggren, C. L. (2007). Pregnancy and chiropractic: a narrative review of the literature. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 30(6), 447-453.

Common Myths About Chiropractic: Separating Fact from Fiction

When people think of chiropractic, they often picture loud cracks, twisted bodies, and quick fixes for back pain. These images, shaped by movies, television, and secondhand stories, tend to miss the mark. Many of the most common beliefs about chiropractic care are based on outdated assumptions or misunderstandings that don’t reflect the real experience.

Myths About Chiropractic

One widespread belief is that chiropractic is only useful for back pain. While many find relief in that area, chiropractic care focuses on how the spine affects the nervous system. When the spine is misaligned or not moving well, it can interfere with how nerves communicate with the rest of the body. That interference can show up in many ways-poor sleep, low energy, digestive issues, or trouble focusing. Many patients have shared that after starting care, they noticed unexpected improvements beyond what they originally came in for. Chiropractic doesn’t cure or treat specific conditions-it helps the body work better.

Safety is another area where myths often take hold. A common concern is spinal adjustments, especially to the neck, are dangerous. It’s an understandable fear, especially when stories are shared without context. However, research shows the risk of serious complications from a chiropractic neck adjustment is extremely low. According to the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, the risk is about the same as having one’s hair washed at a salon.(1) Most people find adjustments to be gentle, precise, and relieving.

Then there’s the idea that chiropractic is “cracking backs.” This oversimplifies a highly skilled and thoughtful process. Chiropractors use a wide range of techniques. Some involve a quick, light thrust; others use hand-held instruments; still others include positioning the body in a way that allows natural correction. The goal is not force-it’s precision. A good chiropractor observes subtle patterns, listens to the body, and adjusts with intent to reduce nerve interference so the body can respond more efficiently.

Another common myth is that once someone starts seeing a chiropractor, they’re locked in for life. People often hear this and assume it’s a sales tactic. The truth is that ongoing care is entirely voluntary. Many people choose to continue because they feel a difference in their daily lives-more energy, less stiffness, better digestion, or improved mood. Just like regular exercise or healthy eating, chiropractic care is something people often want to keep up with because it helps them feel and function.

Some also question whether chiropractors are “real” doctors. The answer is yes-they are trained extensively in anatomy, physiology, neurology, radiology, and diagnosis. Chiropractic education includes thousands of classroom and clinical hours, plus national board exams. While their approach differs from medical doctors, their education is demanding and science-based.

Many people who once believed these myths had changed their minds after experiencing care themselves. They come in uncertain and leave feeling more connected to their bodies. It’s often not about what gets fixed but how much better life starts to feel when the nervous system can do its job.

Want to Experience Healing in Real Life?

Call us to make an appointment. We’d love to see you! 517.627.4547

 

  1. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, Volume 25, Issue 8, 2002, Pages 501-506. 

Researching Chiropractic: Severe low back pain and Colds and Sinus Infections

Chiropractic clinical case histories have been a regular feature of our patient newsletter since its inception. There seems to be no limit to the health problems that respond positively to chiropractic care. How many people suffering, reliant on medication and drugs, and facing a life of limitation could be helped by chiropractic care? 

Probably most of them.

sinus infections

Severe Low Back Pain 

Linda, a 55-year-old schoolteacher, struggled with severe low back pain that made it difficult to stand in front of her class. Painkillers provided little relief, and her orthopedic doctor suggested surgery.

Looking for alternatives, she tried chiropractic care. Her chiropractor discovered a pelvic misalignment, likely from years of poor posture. After just a few sessions, Linda felt significant relief, and after three months of treatment, she was able to teach pain-free for the first time in years. She even canceled her surgery, making her skeptical orthopedic surgeon admit, “Whatever you’re doing, it’s working.” (1)

Frequent Colds and Sinus Infections

Tom, a 35-year-old firefighter, frequently battled colds and sinus infections due to his demanding job. Skeptical but willing, he joined a chiropractic study. After months of adjustments, he noticed fewer illnesses, milder allergies, and more energy. One night, after a major fire, he realized he hadn’t been sick in months. Lab tests confirmed improved immune markers, reinforcing his belief in chiropractic care’s benefits. (2)

Do you know someone with any of these issues?

Please encourage them to make an appointment with us!

(517) 627-4547

  1. Haavik, H., Niazi, I. K., Amjad, I., Kumari, N., Ghani, U., Ashfaque, M., Rashid, U., Navid, M. S., Kamavuako, E. N., Pujari, A. N., & Holt, K. (2024). Neuroplastic Responses to Chiropractic Care: Broad Impacts on Pain, Mood, Sleep, and Quality of Life. Brain Sciences, 14(11), 1124. https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14111124
  2. Schalow, P. R., Mayer-Hunt, J., & Alcantara, J. (2023). Observation of Changes in Secretory Immunoglobulin A (SIgA) after Upper Cervical Adjusting Techniques. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine. https://www.chiropractic.org/new-study-unveils-relationship-between-chiropractic-care-and-immune-response/

Bone Broth, Organ Meats, and Raw Dairy: Weston A. Price’s Key Foods for Spinal Health

Dr. Weston A. Price, a dentist and researcher, spent years studying the diets of traditional societies. He found that people who ate nutrient-rich, ancestral foods had excellent bone structure, strong teeth, and resilient joints. Among the foods he highlighted for spinal health were bone broth, organ meats, and raw dairy. These foods provide essential nutrients that modern diets often lack. (1)

Foods for Spinal Health

Bone Broth: Building Strong Vertebrae and Joints

Bone broth has been a staple in traditional diets for generations. When animal bones simmer for hours, they release collagen, gelatin, and an array of minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. These nutrients help maintain strong vertebrae and keep spinal discs flexible.

Collagen and gelatin support connective tissues, including the ligaments and cartilage surrounding the spine. Many who consume bone broth regularly report improved mobility and reduced stiffness, as the broth nourishes joints from within. The easily absorbed minerals in broth also provide the raw materials needed for bone maintenance and repair.

Organ Meats: A Lost Superfood for Spinal Health

Organ meats, once prized for their exceptional nutrient content, have largely disappeared from modern diets. However, they remain one of the best sources of vitamins and minerals essential for spinal strength.

Liver is particularly rich in vitamin A, which supports calcium absorption and bone remodeling. It also contains vitamin K2, a nutrient that ensures calcium is properly deposited in bones rather than soft tissues. Without adequate K2, calcium can accumulate in arteries and joints instead of strengthening the spine. Heart and kidneys also contain important nutrients like CoQ10 and B vitamins, which help maintain energy levels and overall musculoskeletal health.

Raw Dairy: Calcium and Beyond

Raw dairy was a dietary cornerstone in many traditional cultures, providing bioavailable calcium, vitamin D, and healthy fats. Unlike pasteurized dairy, raw milk preserves natural enzymes and beneficial bacteria that aid digestion and nutrient absorption.

The calcium and phosphorus in raw dairy are critical for maintaining spinal strength, while vitamin D helps regulate calcium levels in the body. Many people who consume raw dairy notice improvements in posture, muscle tone, and skeletal resilience, as these nutrients work together to support the body’s natural structure.

Traditional Foods for a Stronger Spine

Weston A. Price’s research continues to be relevant today. While processed foods dominate modern diets, traditional nourishment provides the essential building blocks for spinal health. Bone broth, organ meats, and raw dairy offer a natural way to support the spine, improve flexibility, and maintain long-term strength. Those who return to these foods often experience better mobility, increased comfort, and a greater sense of vitality.

  1. Price, Weston A. “Nutrition and Physical Degeneration.” Paul B. Hoeber, Inc., 1939.

Essential Oils and Digestive Health: Soothing the Gut Naturally

A Natural Way to Soothe Digestion

Essential oils like peppermint, ginger, and fennel offer a simple and effective option for those seeking natural digestive support. These plant-based solutions have stood the test of time, whether easing bloating, reducing nausea, or promoting gut comfort.

Essential Oils and Digestive Health

Peppermint Oil: Cooling Relief for Digestion

Peppermint oil is known for its refreshing scent and cooling effect. When diluted and massaged onto the abdomen, it can help relax the digestive tract muscles, making it useful for bloating and cramping. Many people also inhale peppermint oil to ease nausea, especially during travel or after eating a heavy meal. Research suggests that peppermint may support gastrointestinal comfort, with a study by McKay and Blumberg (2006) highlighting its potential benefits (1).

Ginger Oil: Warming Comfort for the Stomach

Ginger has long been used to settle the stomach, and its essential oil offers similar benefits in a concentrated form. When mixed with a carrier oil and applied to the abdomen, ginger oil provides a warming sensation that can encourage smoother digestion. Some prefer to add a small drop to warm tea or water, mimicking the traditional use of ginger root for digestive support. This oil is often chosen for its ability to ease queasiness and promote overall stomach comfort.

Fennel Oil: Supporting Gut Function

Fennel oil, with its naturally sweet and earthy scent, is often used when digestion feels sluggish. It can be diluted and rubbed onto the abdomen to encourage digestive ease. Fennel seeds have been chewed after meals for centuries, and their essential oil provides a concentrated form of the same beneficial compounds. Many find fennel oil helpful in maintaining regular digestion and soothing occasional bloating.

Using Essential Oils Safely

With essential oils, a little goes a long way. Proper dilution is key, as applying them directly to the skin without a carrier oil may cause irritation. High-quality, pure oils offer the best experience, whether applied topically, inhaled, or used in appropriate amounts in warm liquids.

  1. McKay, D. L., & Blumberg, J. B. (2006). A review of the bioactivity and potential health benefits of peppermint tea (Mentha piperita L.). Phytotherapy Research, 20(8), 619-633.

Chiropractic and Chronic Pain: A Natural Solution Without Drugs

Chronic pain can wear a person down, draining energy and making daily life difficult. Many people turn to medications for relief, only to find themselves relying on them long-term without addressing the real issue. Chiropractic offers another way that works with the body rather than against it.

chronic pain

The spine isn’t just a stack of bones; it protects the nervous system, the body’s communication network. When the spine is misaligned, nerves can become irritated, leading to pain that may not go away on its own. This isn’t limited to backaches, headaches, joint pain, and even arm or leg discomfort may all stem from spinal issues. Restoring proper alignment allows the body to function as it was designed, relieving pain naturally.

A Different Approach to Healing

Many who come to a chiropractor have tried everything else. Take, for example, a man in his 40s who had lived with lower back pain for years. He had tried stretching, heat, and over-the-counter medications. Nothing made a lasting difference. After a few visits to the chiropractor, he noticed something unusual-his pain wasn’t coming back. His body had found its way back to normal function without artificial interference.

The body wants to heal, and removing interference gives it the chance to do so. Chiropractic does not force anything; it simply restores what was already there. This approach has helped countless people find relief without relying on outside substances. A study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that those who received chiropractic adjustments for chronic lower back pain had better long-term outcomes than those who used medication alone. (1)

Restoring Natural Function

The best part? This is not a one-size-fits-all process. Every person’s spine tells a different story, and a skilled chiropractor listens to it. Some notice an immediate difference, while others improve gradually. Either way, the goal remains the same: helping the body work as it should.

Chronic pain is not something to accept as a way of life. The body is capable of far more than most people realize. Chiropractic provides a way to unlock that potential naturally, safely, and effectively.

Ready to give Chiropractic a Try?

Make an appointment with us!

(517) 627-4547

 

  1. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 2013

Chiropractic and Better Sleep

A good night’s sleep can make all the difference. Waking up refreshed and feeling light and energized isn’t just about having the right mattress or bedtime routine. The nervous system plays a key role, and chiropractic care has long been associated with helping the body function as it should-including during rest.

Chiropractic and Better Sleep

People who struggle with restlessness, tossing and turning, or waking up feeling stiff often find that their spine holds the answer. The body relies on clear communication between the brain and every system that keeps it running. Signals can’t travel properly when there’s interference-whether from poor posture, stress, or misalignments. This affects more than just comfort; it influences how deeply and peacefully a person sleeps.

It’s common to hear from those under regular chiropractic care that they fall asleep faster and wake up less throughout the night. There’s a simple reason for this. When the spine is aligned, unnecessary tension eases, and the nervous system shifts away from a state of stress. Many people live with tightness and hardly notice until it’s gone. Their shoulders, neck, and lower back relax, allowing the body to settle naturally into rest.

The Nervous System’s Role in Sleep

The connection between spinal health and sleep isn’t just anecdotal. Research published in Brain Sciences observed significant improvements in light sleep stages among participants receiving chiropractic adjustments over four weeks. These participants also reported enhanced overall quality of life, with notable reductions in anxiety, depression, fatigue, and pain. The study suggests that the health benefits of chiropractic care may be due to altered brain activity, supporting the idea that spinal alignment can ease tension and encourage better sleep (1).

Stress is another factor that affects sleep quality. Many who experience frequent waking during the night or have difficulty falling asleep are unknowingly caught in a cycle of nervous system overstimulation. Chiropractic care is known to support the body’s ability to transition from a heightened state of alertness to relaxation. As the nervous system finds balance, the body becomes more receptive to the natural sleep cycle. This is why those receiving regular care often describe feeling more rested, even if the total number of hours slept does not change.

Better sleep isn’t just about feeling well-rested. Sleep is when the body repairs itself, restores energy, and processes information from the day. Poor sleep can contribute to brain fog, irritability, and reduced immune function. By improving nervous system function, chiropractic care may help people sleep more soundly and wake up feeling clearer and more focused. Over time, consistent rest can have long-term benefits for physical and mental well-being.

Light pressure, gentle care, and attention to the body’s natural structure often lead to noticeable differences. Some notice it right away, others over time. Either way, sleep improves when the body isn’t working against itself.

Ready to sleep better?

Make an appointment with us!

(517) 627-4547

1.Haavik, H., Niazi, I. K., Amjad, I., Kumari, N., Ghani, U., Ashfaque, M., Rashid, U., Navid, M. S., Kamavuako, E. N., Pujari, A. N., & Holt, K. (2024). Neuroplastic Responses to Chiropractic Care: Broad Impacts on Pain, Mood, Sleep, and Quality of Life. Brain Sciences, 14(11), Article 1124. https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14111124