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Back To School Tips: Backpack Safety

Despite the hot temperatures, it is hard to believe that summer is near an end and the kids are returning back to the classrooms. Despite your child’s age, the number one school supply is the ultimate backpack. There are many different options of backpacks that vary with different themes, styles, accessories, and so forth; however, the most important quality of a backpack is the safety. Nearly 5,000 annual emergency room visits are related to backpack injuries. On the other hand, most backpack related injuries are not emergencies; however, consistent overweight loads can lead to pain, and compensation to the neck, shoulders, upper back, low back and hip regions. Such heavy and consistent loads lead to not only musculoskeletal symptoms, but will also have a direct influence on the posture and structural development of children.

 

Back Pack Size

Not all backpacks are created equal. There are many sizes, materials used, and other factors to consider. To ensure proper size, search for a backpack designed for your child’s age, height, and weight. Backpacks made for children typically are made of lighter material and are smaller in size. The length of the backpack should be the length of the child’s torso, with the bottom being two inches below the waist. The overall backpack size will ensure proper fitting of the backpack on the child’s spine.

 

Overall Back Pack Weight

When in hunt for the perfect backpack, look for one that offers multiple compartments. A backpack with many compartments allows for equal distribution of items, in order to balance the load. Heavier items should be packed lower, towards the back, and closer to the body. The weight of the backpack should never exceed 15% of the child’s weight.

 

Fitting of Backpack

Having the perfect size backpack that has equal and proper weight would be of little value if the fitting of the backpack was improper. The backpack should be worn on both shoulders to ensure proper weight distribution. Preferably, a waist strap should be utilized to promote additional weight disruption. With minimal space between the spine and the backpack, proper fitting would be worn as close to the body.

 

For further information on backpack safety, check out the National Safety Council’s guide on backpack safety here http://www.nsc.org/learn/safety-knowledge/Pages/backpack-safety-for-kids.aspx. Any additional questions regarding backpack safety, or for a complimentary backpack safety check for your child, please contact Dr. Samaira at 404-355-5499.

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Who is Thunderbolt Power Yoga? Q & A with Carly Grace

What is the name of your business and what is its function?

Thunderbolt Power Yoga, a Heated Power Vinyasa Yoga Studio offering a range of classes suitable for all-levels.

How long have you been in Buckhead?Thunderbolt_LoyallHartPhotography0051

Thunderbolt Power Yoga opened in September 2014!

We are about to celebrate our two year Birthday!

What do you like most about Buckhead?

We love the community in Buckhead and we have benefitted from partnerships with like-minded local businesses on many occasions.  Many of the yogis at Thunderbolt celebrate our tight knit community and champion the quality of yoga instruction and customer service that we provide.  

What separates your business from the others and makes it the best?

There are many yoga studios in the Atlanta area, and each has its unique character.  Carly Grace Hinchman, TPY Studio Owner & Founder, ends each of her classes with the mantra, “Be audaciously playful.”  Our community is fun-loving, empowering, and seeks to lift one another up in spirit and in life.

Who is your ideal client?

An experienced yoga student who is hoping to experiment with inversions or challenging poses to enliven her practice, or a true beginner who is looking to improve performance in a sport or whom wants to start practicing yoga as part of a healthy lifestyle.  

People have all sorts of reasons for coming to class.  Anyone who is ready to sweat and have fun is an ideal client!

Is there something that people in the community do not know about your business that they should know?

We use a infrared radiant energy to heat our yoga room, rather than the alternative forced air systems offered in many studios. We adhere to a strict no cell phones in the room policy to keep the environment and yoga room clutter free.  We strive to help each student truly begin a life long yoga practice.

For more information please check out: http://www.thunderboltpoweryoga.com/

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What Are the Benefits of Prenatal Chiropractic Care

There are numerous benefits associated with prenatal chiropractic care, including a safer, easier, and more comfortable pregnancy and birth, along with added benefits for the unborn baby. Physically, a mother’s body experiences many changes over the course of 9 months. As her weight and stomach size increases, the center of gravity shifts, producing more compensation on muscles, ligaments, and joints. This commonly results in low back pain, sciatica, headaches, and even non-musculoskeletal issues such as acid reflux and digestive issues. Ligament tension and pelvic misalignments not only lead to discomfort during the pregnancy, but they can potentially impact the birthing process, as well. Published research and collaborative studies to show the efficacy and safety of chiropractic care in pregnancy can be found at: http://icpa4kids.org/Chiropractic-Research/Pregnancy-and-Adjustments/

Nervous System

The nervous system is the master controller of the body and administers the development of the baby in the womb. Chiropractic care corrects misaligned vertebrae that interfere with the functions of the nervous system. Chiropractic adjustments allow the nervous system to work at its best, promoting proper growth and development of the baby.

“Chiropractic care throughout pregnancy removes interference to the mother’s nervous system, enhancing baby development and uterine function. It balances her pelvis, eliminating undue tension to muscles and ligaments, thereby allowing for optimal fetal positioning”

Dr. Jeanne Ohm

Managing Symptoms

Chiropractic care is a safe (for mom and baby) and natural way to manage common symptoms associated with pregnancy. Common symptoms that many expectant mothers experience include muscle soreness, low back pain, headaches, sciatica, morning sickness, acid reflux, indigestion, constipation, and others. Chiropractic care does not cure any of the common symptoms; however, taking pressure of the nervous system allows the body to adapt to the overwhelming physical and hormonal changes, resulting in decreased intensity and duration of symptoms.

Delivery and Postpartum

Chiropractors trained in prenatal care are equipped with the Webster Technique, which is a type of adjustment that re-aligns the sacrum and pelvic bones and reduces tension of the Round Ligament. Proper positioning of soft tissue and bone structures allows for adequate room for the baby to grow, develop, and position in preparation for birth. Although the Webster Technique does not turn breech babies, many breech births are avoided after correcting misalignments and reducing tension of the Round Ligament, both of which create more room for a baby to turn naturally on her or his own. When the baby is in proper position, and the mother’s pelvic bones and ligaments are at ease, the delivery is much safer and efficient for mom and baby. A further advantage of prenatal chiropractic care is that fewer complications tend to arise during delivery (cesarean section, vacuum extraction, forceps), allowing for a more smooth transition and recovery for all parties involved.

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Can Chiropractic Help with Sciatica During Pregnancy?

What Is Sciatica?

Sciatica is pressure and or irritation on the sciatic nerve that results in pain along the distribution of the nerve (buttock, down the back of the thigh and leg). The quality of pain can vary from sharp, dull, achy, to burning.

What Causes Sciatica?

Pressure on the sciatic nerve from a herniated disk, misaligned vertebra, or spinal degeneration. Based on individual anatomy, the piriformis muscle can irritate the sciatic nerve resulting in similar symptoms as sciatica, and is termed “Piriformis Syndrome”. In pregnant women, different factors can attribute to sciatica symptoms. Weight gain, uterus expansion, increased lordotic curve (due to the growing belly), and the position of the baby can all put additional pressure on the sciatic nerve during pregnancy.

How Can Chiropractic Help?

Chiropractic adjustments provide a non-surgical, non-invasive, and safe treatment for sciatica for both mom and baby. Spinal adjustments help correct misaligned vertebrae and reduce nerve irritation that can promote sciatica symptoms and muscle tension. Chiropractic care during pregnancy is safe and effective, and it provides benefits to both mom and the developing baby. To find a chiropractor trained and specialized in prenatal and pregnancy care, call our office at 404-355-5499.

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The Need for Probiotics When Taking Antibiotics

When we feel those sinus-like symptoms start to kick in, our society tends to turn
very quickly to antibiotics. These antibiotics eliminate the harmful bacteria
that are intruding on our systematic physiological flow (“anti”- against, “biotic”- living organisms).
Unfortunately, they also destroy the thriving bacteria that keep our guts strong.
We have so much concern with bacteria in and on our bodies that we go to extreme
lengths to eradicate them- all of them (which means destroying the destructive
and beneficial little buggers alike).

Here is a run-down of what happens when antibiotics are introduced to the body:

 

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Now, please do not misunderstand me- I believe antibiotics can have their place in our lives (i.e. in emergency situations). However, when we take them, we have to be so intentional about also giving our bodies plenty of probiotics to help support our gut’s natural ability to rid itself of harmful illnesses. In Joyce Killian’s article “The Overlooked Role of Probiotics in Human Health” in Life Extension Magazine, April 2012, she explains the impact that probiotics have on a person’s overall health. Our bodies depend on these organisms for healthy immune functioning (as the gut is host to more than 70% of the immune system), decreased inflammation, and gut flora balance. Probiotics also group together to line the intestinal walls, hence acting as a shield against the determined and harmful bacteria that want to escape into the body. Protecting the gut is foundational to a healthy and thriving body.

 

 

Food sources of probiotics

Sauerkraut
Kombucha (fermented tea)
Fermented vegetables
Organic Keifer (from grass-fed animals)
Organic Whole Fat Plain Yogurt (from grass-fed animals)

 

For personalized health plans and nutritional advising, contact us! We would love to chat with you about ways to help improve your health, so you can live a thriving life!

404-355-5499

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Why Eating Seasonally Is So Important (Summertime in Atlanta)

Don’t you just love summertime foods? This season is booming with delicious produce! From watermelon, to tomatoes, to squash, to berries, to peaches, to greens, to herbs, and the list continues.

Ever wonder why we crave these foods in the summertime and other foods in the fall or wintertime? It is because our bodies were intentionally designed to eat seasonally – this is why eating seasonal is important to our body. We want watermelon in the hot summer months because it is made almost entirely of water, so the fruit provides refreshing relief on a humid and sunny day. In the colder months though, we desire warmth and comfort, which means root veggies and soups. These foods are heavier and starchier, so we feel satiated and internally warm. Nature knows best, that’s for sure.

Check out a local farmer’s market for this season’s food selection – all the healthy kids are doing it 🙂

There are ITP (Inside The Perimeter) and OTP (Outside The Perimeter) markets almost every day of the week!

I do chef demos at the Grant Park Farmer’s Market (Grant Park, Atlanta) one Sunday each month during the season, so put Sunday, July 17th on your calendar to come hang out with us and sample delicious and fresh foods! You surely do not want to miss free samples of delicious food, right?! Also, here is a free local summer salad recipe you can try out first.

 

Want to get more of our healthy food recipes?

Be sure to follow my food blog @More_Than_Food on Instagram/ Facebook to stay updated on demo dates and daily recipes/health tips!

Be sure to try out also the summer supplements Dr. Austin recommend and use. Or follow the 3 steps to maximize your health and summer!

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Healthy Local Summer Salad Recipe

Summer is almost here! Everyone is getting ready to go out under the sun and going to a summer vacation. The question is, is your body ready? Be sure to be healthy still this summer season. Try out my recipe for local veggie salad. This is so easy to make and ingredients are just local so you can source it out without a hassle and bustle.

  • Beets (1, diced super small)
  • Cucumbers (2, spiraled)
  • Basil (⅓ cup, fresh, chopped)
  • * Peaches (1, chopped)

 

Instructions

  • Mix all together with some EVOO (Extra Virgin Olive Oil), salt, and pepper.

 

 

Enjoy this refreshing and local dish!

For more tips, read our article on how to maximize your health this summer and supplements to keep your health and nutrition upbeat.

Want More Healthy Food Recipes?

Follow @More_Than_Food on IG & Facebook for more nutritious recipes and healthy living tips,

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Breaking Down the 3 Phases of Chiropractic

by Dr. Adam Podraza

 

Picture walking onto a construction site, and the contractor shows up with no blueprints or plans. He says he is going to show up every day, view the progress thus far, and make all decisions on what to do as he goes. Is that a fool-proof plan that will lead to successful results? Unfortunately, it is not.

Before even lifting one hammer, the contractor should explain in detail the different stages of construction, what to expect during each stage, and when you should expect the job to be completed.

Chiropractic care is, and should be, the same way. Your Chiropractor should have a plan for your care and explain the three phases in detail, so you can fully understand what to expect during each phase and where you are throughout the process.

Phase 1: Crisis (Relief) Care

Most people begin in this phase, unless they have been under care for a significant amount of time or if their spinal structure is in excellent condition. The primary objective of Phase 1 is to eliminate pain and have patients function as they did before the pain started. First, a thorough examination is done to reveal the areas of spinal dysfunction. Then, a care plan is created with two objectives in mind: eliminate or reduce discomfort/dysfunction and stabilize your condition in the shortest time possible. Each plan is personalized depending on the presenting condition of the patient. Phase 1 typically takes 4-6 weeks and is confirmed through objective testing.

Phase 2: Corrective (Rehabilitative) Care

This phase is centered on maintaining the progress that has been made in the relief phase while also strengthening the muscles, tendons, and ligaments. With the areas of stress in the spine diminishing, it is important to give the body the time it needs to adapt all of the surrounding structures and tissues to their position of optimal function. The frequency of visits reduces during Phase 2 because the body is starting to hold the adjustments longer and is becoming more stable. This phase typically lasts 6-8 weeks depending on the patient’s progress.

Phase 3: Wellness Care  

Wellness is the third and final stage of Chiropractic care. This phase is meant to maintain your improved health and spinal function while also preventing the return of any condition we have corrected throughout this adjusting process. At this point – depending on a person’s goals- specific suggestions can be made to take a patient’s health to the next level, such as on the topics of fitness, mindfulness, and nutrition. Please understand that if during this process you suffer an injury or setback, you may need to begin with Crisis Care initially to support your body, and that is perfectly okay. The good news is that your body has gone through this process in the past, so it will be ready to move through the phases more quickly!

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Top 3 Myths About Chiropractic Care for Children

Myth #1: Children Don’t Need Chiropractic Care/ Chiropractic Care is only for Children involved in Car Accidents or Major Health Issues

Children can experience spinal misalignments from major trauma, minor trauma such as common falls, and even the birthing process (especially cesarean section, vacuum and forcep extractions). Spinal misalignments interfere with proper nerve function, which is vital, given that the first year of life involves 65% of a child’s brain and nervous system development. Chiropractic care also has great results with common issues such as ear infections, colic, acid reflux, difficulty latching/feeding, sleeping problems, constipation, and bed wetting.

On the other hand, more parents are choosing to be proactive and seek chiropractic care for their children even when no symptoms are present, in order to ensure proper neurological development and optimal health levels of their little ones.

 

Myth #2: Chiropractic Care Is Dangerous/Unsafe for Children, & They Adjust Children the Same Way as Adults

Pediatric chiropractors who obtain specialized training and certification via the ICPA (International Chiropractic Pediatric Association) are equipped with gentle techniques for children of all ages. Low-force techniques (such as the Activator tool) use the same amount of force one would apply to check the ripeness of a tomato. Newborns and infants are adjusted with a sustained contact. Trained pediatric chiropractors will analyze and determine the proper technique needed for each child.

 

Myth #3: Children Must Be a Certain Age to Receive Chiropractic Care

It is never too early for a child to be seen by a chiropractor. Some children are seen days, even moments after birth, due to the stress on the spine during the birthing process. On the other hand, it is also never too late to seek chiropractic care for children. Children at any age can benefit from chiropractic care during their various stages of development.

Ideally, to maximize the benefits of chiropractic care for children, it is advised that mom seeks chiropractic care during her pregnancy. Care during pregnancy ensures proper alignment of the pelvis, which allows adequate room for the baby to properly grow and develop. Correctly aligning mom’s pelvis also promotes a more efficient birthing process for both mom and baby. For more information on publish research regarding children and chiropractic, visit icpa4kids.com.

Ready to bring your children to pediatric chiropractor? Schedule your appointment now by clicking the button below.

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Prepare for Unwanted Spring Allergies

Do you get those unwanted spring allergies every year? What if those symptoms can be lessened (and sometimes even eliminated)? The keys are preparation, detox, and support. We need to cleanse the body of toxins and build up the fighting organs with enough fuel to combat allergens that are coming just around the corner. Follow these steps, and build a titanium internal defense against allergies. We provide tips on how to prepare for unwanted allergies this spring season.

  1. Beat spring allergies by eating beets. Lots of them! These root veggies are powerful in thinning out the bile that carries toxins out of the body, making everything move out a bit faster.
  1. Include more raw leafy greens into your food choices. Not only do they provide a surplus of essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the body, but greens also are important for the cleansing process of your organs, blood, and tissues.
  1. Add a high quality fish oil. The omega-3 fatty acids in fish oils decrease inflammation in the body that is caused by toxins. Healthy oils also build up the brain, cardiovascular system, and digestive track.
  1. Increase foods that are high in Vitamin C. This important vitamin is essential for adrenal health and stress response, as well as your immune health {organic bell peppers, leafy greens, kiwi, broccoli, berries, oranges, papayas, and tomatoes}. Vitamin C will help your body fight seasonal allergies by strengthening your immune system.
  1. Use Apple Cider Vinegar. This versatile ingredient does wonders for the body. First thing in the morning, mix 2 tsp of ACV in a glass of water with juice from a lemon, and your digestive track and detox systems will start working asap.
  1. Check for nutritional deficiencies in your body. Use whole food-based concentrates to correct any levels that are off balance, and regain your health before the seasons change. Ask Jessica, our Nutrition Advisor, about nutrition services offered here at Corrective Chiropractic and to schedule your appointment.

Alternatively, this is also a time in the season where chiropractic visit becomes so important. Regular chiropractic adjustment has proven effects that lessens allergies on patients. You can also check out nutritious recipes and healthy living tips on the @More_Than_Food in Instagram and YouTube channel!

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