High blood pressure (a.k.a. hypertension—HTN) is a serious medical condition that occurs when the pressure in the arteries becomes chronically elevated. People afflicted with this condition are at a greater risk for developing life-threatening conditions like stroke, aneuyrism, kidney problems, and heart disease. Because of this, controlling hypertension is extremely important.

High blood pressure is typically classified as either primary or secondary. The majority of sufferers have the primary subtype, meaning there is no identifiable cause. Fewer people suffer with secondary hypertension; secondary high blood pressure means the condition has an identifiable cause (e.g., another disease or side effect from a medication). Unsurprisingly, hypertension can be mild, moderate, or even severe. It is often referred to as a silent killer because symptoms might not be present (therefore, people go untreated). When symptoms do exist, they usually include one or more of the following:

• Vertigo
• Back of the head ache or pain
• Ear disturbances
• Vision problems
• Syncope (fainting)
• Light-headed-ness
• Shortness of breath
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Chest pain
• Weakness

Can natural therapies lower high blood pressure? Fortunately, the answer is “yes.” A diet rich in whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and low sodium can improve hypertension in certain people. At the same time, twenty to thirty minutes of aerobic activity three to five times per week has shown to be beneficial.

What constitutes aerobic activity? Movements that raise the heart rate. For example, brisk walking, swimming, climbing, and bicycling are all considered aerobic activity. As with almost any type of exercise, it is important to begin gradually (warm up) and taper movement toward the end (cool down).

What does chiropractic care have to do with hypertension? Well, researchers at the University of Chicago conducted a study to find out if chiropractic care had any bearing on this condition. They separated high blood pressure patients in to two groups: one group received real chiropractic treatments, while the other had a sham therapy.

What did the researchers find? They discovered the authentic chiropractic group realized an impressive drop in blood pressure: adjustments to the C1 vertebrae seemed especially important. In fact, a noticeable improvement was realized after only one treatment! Conversely, the group receiving the sham adjustments showed barely any drop in pressure at all.

What does this suggest? It indicates that misalignments affect more than just the skeletal system. By better balancing the body through chiropractic treatments, additional systems, including the nervous system, benefit. Naturally, hypertension sufferers should not toss aside all medications, at least not at this point. Nonetheless, drugs have potentially harmful side effects; consequently, it makes sense to explore more natural measures.

Do you suffer with high blood pressure? Then contact Dr. Cao. Who knows, you might be less dependent on medication in no time.

Obesity is a widespread problem, and the reasons for the situation are many. People who regularly overindulge and/or forego the right meal selections may do so because life can be stressful, it feels comforting to eat certain foods, it occupies time, or a combination of assorted reasons. Whatever the cause, too much weight is not beneficial for our bodies. It can negatively impact muscles, affect bones, spur on melancholy moods (depression), clog our arteries, lead to high cholesterol and heart disease, and the list goes on.

How does a chiropractor treat obesity? Well, some practitioners have their own individualized methods, but the steps likely include the following:

• Suggestions on diet. The food choices we make have an enormous impact on our health. When we regularly take in processed, fatty, sugary, and unwholesome foods, our bodies suffer the consequences. Switching to a diet that is rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables (particularly the green, leafy variety), and high-quality protein (like cold-water fish, beans, and fermented soy) is extremely beneficial because these foods produce a greater degree of well-being. It’s also important to keep in mind that certain drinks can be harmful, as well. For instance, soda, even the diet variety, is not favorable to losing weight or staying healthy. On the other hand, liquids like purified water and green tea are great choices.

• Exercise. Exercise is major factor in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and it is especially crucial for individuals who want to lose weight. A routine that includes aerobic activity (like fast walking) and weight bearing exercises (like lifting weights) can stimulate the metabolism, increase circulation, and aid in shedding pounds. Yoga and Pilates are also fabulous choices; in addition to burning calories, encouraging better circulation, and helping the metabolism work more efficiently, these workouts also enhance balance, improve range of motion, and encourage a positive outlook.

• Adjustments. Overweight people sometimes have difficulty getting around without experiencing some type of discomfort. They struggle with knee pain, hip soreness, back aches, neck stiffness, etc. And, when pain is present, who wants to exercise? Chiropractors perform a comprehensive examination to determine the source of the pain. Based on the findings, different stretching techniques and adjustments work to restore alignment so the body is better balanced and free of distress. Then, exercise becomes pleasing instead of daunting.

Obesity is a struggle for a number of people, but there are effective ways to overcome this health risk. So, if too many pounds are dragging you down, call Healing Hands Chiropractic Care today and start journeying down a healthier road.

Lutein is a carotenoid that supports the skin and eyes.

What are carotenoids? Naturally occurring pigments. The body does not manufacture this particular antioxidant on its own, so people get lutein from outside sources (i.e., food). In fact, some experts suggest that individuals should take in at least 7 to 10 mg. of this nutrient per day.

Which foods are rich in lutein? Here are several examples.

• Kale. Kale possesses impressive amounts of this fabulous free radical fighter.
• Spinach. Raw spinach has higher levels than cooked, but the cooked variety also provides a respectable amount.
• Swiss chard. Swiss chard is another green edible that packs a powerful lutein punch.
• Raw garden peas. Once we leave the leafy veggies behind, lutein content seems to drop off. Still, it’s smart to put raw garden peas on the grocery list.
• Zucchini. Zucchini offers an adequate amount of lutein, but their blossoms are even better.
• Pistachios. This tasty nut has multiple health benefits, and lutein is one of them.
• Carrots. Remember when Mama said, “Eat carrots, they’re good for your eyes”? Well, it seems Mama was a wise woman.
• Egg yolks. Egg yolks may not be as high in lutein as certain leafy vegetables, but some experts suggest the amount it does possess is better absorbed.

Now that we’ve listed some lutein-rich foods, let’s look a little closer at lutein’s health benefits.

• Eyes. Lutein is found in the macula and is believed to guard against oxidative stress. Experts suggest that age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is less likely to occur (or progress) when lutein levels are sufficient. AMD typically results in mild vision loss. Even so, 10 to 15% of AMD cases can lead to severe loss of sight. Eating foods high in lutein helps to protect eyesight. A Harvard study suggested that individuals who ate a lutein-rich diet also reduced the risk of developing cataracts. Even those with otherwise normal vision seem to enjoy crisper sight when lutein is added to their meal plan.

• Skin. Everyone wants nice skin. Nonetheless, as we age, that desire becomes less likely. Why? Time takes its toll on mature skin and can result in less elasticity, wrinkles, poor hydration, and a weathered appearance. Interestingly, European researchers studied the effects of topical and oral lutein on the skin and came up with some amazing findings. It seems people who used lutein supplements (20 mg. per day) enjoyed a satisfactory increase in elasticity, hydration, and surface lipids. Still, the group who took oral lutein and concurrently applied a lutein cream realized even greater benefits.

Is lutein thought to offer other gains? Yes, it may help ward off illnesses like heart disease and cancer. Naturally, almost everyone can profit from lutein-rich foods, but people over 50 especially realize the benefits. Supplements are available at health food stores and some supermarkets, but supplements should only be taken with the consent of your doctor.

Lutein? It’s worth a look!

Protecting bone vitality is important for people of all ages because our frame keeps us erect and provides a safe haven for our organs. Unfortunately, bones can weaken as we grow older, and working to keep them strong becomes more challenging.

Why does this happen? Aging bones are more susceptible to mineral loss and thinning, and this change can result in fractures and/or osteoporosis (porous bones).

Here are some additional factors that put bones at risk.

• Smoking. Smoking is harmful for a number of reasons, and bone integrity is among them. The longer a person smokes, the greater the possibility that weakening can occur. So, if you do use tobacco, stop: it can only add to your well-being.
• Alcohol. An occasional drink every now and then is generally not a bad thing and might actually be beneficial. However, regular consumption of more than two drinks per day can accelerate bone demineralization. Because of this, limit alcoholic drinks to no more than two. People on the lighter side should not exceed one.
• Gender. Females are at a greater risk of developing osteopenia (the beginning stage of thinning bones), osteoporosis, or even fractures. Keep in mind, nonetheless, that men can also experience these conditions.
• Genetics and race. A propensity to bone brittleness can run in families. At the same time, Caucasians and Asians experience the likelihood of bone weakness in greater numbers.
• Small and/or slight frame. People who have small bones, and especially those who are small and thin, maintain an increased risk of bone loss.
• Medications. Prolonged intake of certain medications, especially steroids (e.g., prednisone), can have a harmful effect on bone health. Even long-term use of bisphosphonates, a class of drugs designed to counteract osteoporosis, are believed to have caused jaw problems and femur breaks in some people.

Even though assorted factors can negatively impact bones, there are important measures everyone can take to help offset the damage. Here are three examples.

1. Eat healthy. Adhering to a healthy diet low in saturated fats and processed foods and rich in whole foods, lean protein, and calcium (like low-fat organic milk, fermented soy, sardines, salmon, broccoli, kale, and almonds) is extremely beneficial to bones. Even so, women over 50 and men over 70 may still need to supplement with 1200 mg. or more of calcium to stave off bone shrinkage. Calcium carbonate, a form of calcium, should be taken with meals for better absorption: calcium citrate can be taken with or without food. Vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin K, and magnesium also contribute to stronger bones.
2. Exercise. Ongoing motion is extremely important to bone health. Physical activity such as climbing the stairs instead of taking the elevator, walking on a treadmill or around the mall, playing sports, lifting weights (they needn’t exceed 2 to 5 pounds to make a difference), doing Pilates, yoga, aerobics, or targeted exercises, will help to slow bone decline. Even individuals with limited mobility greatly benefit from movement. In fact, there are assorted workout programs made especially for people who cannot walk. NOTE: It is important to check with your doctor before beginning any exercise routine.
3. Chiropractic Care. Chiropractic care cannot cure osteoporosis, but a comprehensive program personalized to meet an individual’s respective situation can work to increase balance, enhance muscle tone, and augment joint mobility. These benefits help strengthen the body and reduce the likelihood of fractures. In fact, maintaining sufficient muscle tissue is vital because it helps protect bones! If osteoporosis has already set in, chiropractic care can work to slow its development and reduce the painful symptoms sometimes associated with the more advanced stages of the disease.

How can you tell if your bones are thinning? A bone density scan is good diagnostic tools. This test is noninvasive and painless and takes only minutes to administer. The hips and/or spine will usually be the target points as they are often the first areas to show signs of fracture. Many post-menopausal women are encouraged to get a bone density scan every two years.

Protecting your bones? Yes, it makes sense!

The mainstream medical community has repeatedly suggested a pivotal way to treat neck pain is by writing a prescription. However, a study funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and published in the Annals of Internal Medicine might challenge that type of thinking.

What did the study show? It found that drugs are not the optimal approach to this type of problem. Instead, individuals who utilized chiropractic care and/or exercise were two times more likely to be free of neck pain after a twelve-week period than the group treated with pharmaceuticals.

Naturally, chiropractors are not surprised by the study’s findings; many practitioners understand that drugs may mask neck pain but do little to address the underlying cause.

Fortunately, exercise and/or chiropractic treatments offer a more encouraging outcome, with chiropractic care found to be the most favorable.

Let’s look at each therapy more closely.

• Chiropractic Care. Chiropractors are highly trained in musculoskeletal disorders. Because of this, the chiropractic approach to neck pain can be multifaceted. For example, adjustments work to align the neck and spine. This key therapy directly addresses pain because misalignments often result in pain. Massage, another important method, loosens neck muscles, promotes enhanced flexibility, reduces stress, and increases range of motion. Cold lasers, when appropriate, serve to reinforce the benefits. The result? Reduced or eliminated pain.

• Exercise. Chiropractic treatments are effective when addressing neck pain, but exercise, another natural therapy that can be done in the privacy of your own home, is also important. This is one reason why many chiropractors provide specific exercises for their patients to do at home. Exercise, when done correctly, can improve posture, support balance, and even prevent pain from occurring in the first place. At the same time, other well-being benefits, like heart health, are an added advantage to this type of activity. Actually, exercise rewards are many.

Yes, The National Institutes of Health examined chiropractic treatment and exercise and found both therapies to be better than drugs when treating neck pain. Still, it is important to mention there are other drug-free ways to augment the benefits of chiropractic care and exercise. For example, supplements such as ginger and curcumin (found in tumeric) offer natural anti-inflammatory properties. Concurrently, minimizing sugars and grains in the diet assists the body in helping to prevent inflammatory responses. When these steps are practiced alongside chiropractic care and exercise, the results are impressive.

For additional information regarding the NIH study, go to http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/health/2012/01/04/neck-pain-chiropractors-exercise-better-than-medication-study-says/

Fibromyalgia is a debilitating condition characterized by significant pain that can strike throughout the entire body. In fact, some people say the discomfort radiates from the bones to the muscles and joints. Individuals who experience this unfortunate condition often have their lives considerably altered.

What is fibromyalgia? It’s thought to be a chronic disorder or syndrome. In addition to pain, sufferers sometimes experience fatigue, cognitive difficulties (e.g., adding simple numbers and/or forgetfulness), stiffness, headaches, sleeping inconsistencies, numbness, IBS, unease, depression, and a myriad of other troubling symptoms. People afflicted with this condition may also have illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, or even Lyme disease. Even so, a number of individuals who exhibit fibromyalgia impairment do not display objective findings.

Why does fibromyalgia occur? Some experts believe that abnormal signals occur in the central nervous system. The exact cause of the condition is unknown at this time, although an accident or injury may put certain people at risk. Fibromyalgia affects mostly women, but men are victims, as well. The onset can take place at almost any age, although many people are diagnosed when they are over forty.

What does fibromyalgia have to do with chiropractic care? Well, that is an interesting question, but the answer is even more interesting. Impressively, several studies have indicated that people who undergo a series of chiropractic treatments experience noticeable improvement in their disabling symptoms.

What types of chiropractic measures are implemented when addressing fibromyalgia? A treatment plan is frequently customized to meet an individual’s needs but may include some or all of the following:

• Spinal manipulation.
• Nutritional supplements and/or dietary modifications.
• Massage.
• Cold laser therapy.
• Adjustments.
• Exercises (which may include stretching).

There is no known cure for fibromyalgia, but chiropractic care has shown impressive results in helping a number of the more troublesome signs. Treatments work to properly align the body, which often results in decreased pressure, enhanced posture, relaxed muscles, improved nervous system functioning, and correction of imbalances. Dietary changes (when needed), in addition to certain supplements, serve to reinforce the therapeutic benefits. A bonus? The easing of pain may perhaps be achieved without the need for prescription drugs or their potentially harmful side effects.

So, if you or someone you love has fibromyalgia, give Healing Hands Chiropractic Care a call. Fortunately, help may be closer at hand than you know.

Chiropractic care is a wonderful, natural treatment for expectant mothers; and it’s safe. In fact, certain studies have indicated that females who utilize chiropractic care during pregnancy tend to have shorter labors and less back pain.

Pregnant women experience significant bodily changes, and how well a woman handles the differences can influence the smoothness of her pregnancy and delivery. For example, the extra weight a woman carries often places stress on muscles, bones, ligaments and joints. Unfortunately, this can lead to balance challenges and skeletal misalignment.

How can chiropractic care help?

Depending on a woman’s respective circumstances, therapy could include some or all of the following:

• Adjustments. Adjustments made in a gentle manner work to keep the spine and pelvis in better alignment. This tends to minimize pain and allow for an easier childbirth.

• Nutrition. Nutritional guidance encourages a healthier, more energetic mother. At the same time, it improves the baby’s chances of being born healthy.

• Massage. Massage supports greater flexibility because it loosens up muscles. And, it reduces stress, aches, and movement difficulties.

• Exercise. Pregnancy-approved exercises increase energy, improve balance, and help to keep pain away. Actually, women who exercise during pregnancy are frequently more active. NOTE: Always check with the doctor before developing a workout routine.

Chiropractic care is extremely valuable because it supports wellness, and it’s especially beneficial for pregnant women.

So, if you know someone who is pregnant, a trip to Healing hands Chiropractic Care could be just what she needs to be at her best!

For some people, winter means outdoor fun. Snowboarding, skiing, tobogganing, snowmobiling, hockey, ice-skating, or other cold-weather activity dominates their leisure time.

Still, various injuries can occur from outdoor sports, and the recovery can be lengthy. Here are some of the more common problems that tend to take place.

• Rotator cuff injury. The rotator cuff is made up of muscles and tendons that stabilize the shoulder. A tear or impingement can result in significant pain, limited range of motion, swelling, and sleeping difficulties. A chiropractor often addresses this type of injury with ice, massage, short-term immobilization, stretching, exercise, and/or adjustments. Naturally, the stage of the recovery will determine the appropriate treatment.
• Knee injury. Knees take a lot of grief because they are crucial weight bearing joints. In fact, they rely heavily on surrounding tendons and muscles for strength and steadiness. Following a thorough analysis to determine the nature of the injury, a chiropractor will typically approach pain and inflammation by leg bracing, icing, cold laser treatment, massage, exercise, and/or adjustments. A common result? Stronger knees!
• Whiplash. Some people think whiplash occurs only in a car, but any fast-paced situation can whip the head back and forth. Naturally, the neck can sustain harm from this type of motion. The effects of whiplash may be felt immediately, but sometimes it takes days for the problem to surface. Whiplash severity varies from one individual to another; consequently, treatment is personalized to individual findings. Nonetheless, therapy often includes spinal manipulation, massage, and/or adjustments.
• Head injury. Head injuries are always considered serious and should be addressed immediately by emergency personnel. It is imperative to carry out the proper tests to rule out life-threatening conditions like fractures, swelling of the brain, and concussion. Once it has been determined the situation is treatable outside a hospital setting, a chiropractor can evaluate the injury and propose a course of therapy.

Yes, winter spells p-l-e-a-s-u-r-e for certain individuals. Even so, it is important to keep in mind that cold-weather sports can result in injury, especially when muscles are insufficiently prepared to engage in the activity.

Dr. Cao successfully treats many sports injuries, but she also teaches important strengthening techniques to help prevent future problems. So, call 508-752-5150 today and start feeling stronger!

Most of us hope to begin a New Year with resolutions that reap rewards.  So, in honor of 2012, here are some suggestions to consider:

• Sit/stand properly.  Some people assume a hunched position when standing, walking, or sitting.  Yet, poor posture can lead to painful consequences.  Therefore, try to keep your shoulders back, neck erect, and head high.  When muscles in this area develop imbalances, spinal problems can occur.

• Hydrate with water.  Certain individuals consume sugary drinks and believe they are adequately fulfilling their fluid requirements.  However, liquids such as these are unhealthy for a number of reasons.  Consequently, substitute a glass of purified water for one of the beverages.  As you grow comfortable with this routine, gradually increase your water intake until all sweetened drinks (e.g., soda) are no longer desirable.  It may take a little while to accomplish this resolution, but once you do, soda will be a distant memory.

• Commit to exercise. This to-do has been mentioned before, but it deserves repeating.  Cardio workouts such as treadmill walking and gentle aerobics are beneficial because they support the heart and encourage weight control.  Weight lifting builds muscle and helps the body maintain strength.  Stretching increases motion range and works to enhance flexibility.  Yoga and Pilates improve balance, boost mental clarity, and help prevent injuries.  In sum, properly performed exercise is great for the body and mind!  NOTE: Do not begin a workout routine without doctor approval.

• Schedule regular adjustments. Chiropractic adjustments counteract misalignment’s.  This encourages an enhanced nervous system, improves space in the joint and spinal areas, and results in fewer painful episodes.  Naturally, adjustment frequency is based on an individual’s needs.  Dr. Cao can determine the schedule that is best for you.

• Take good-quality supplements.  A fair number of people eat only what they like; subsequently, they do not get the required amount of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients.  Because of this, high-quality supplements, particularly ones rich in whole foods, can be quite beneficial. When searching for a product, make certain to read the list of ingredients and choose one that is plentiful in antioxidants.

We’ve all heard it said, “New Year’s resolutions are meant to be broken.”  Okay, sometimes they are broken.   Nonetheless, if we try our best and fail, it makes no sense to stress about the situation.

Why?  We can always try again, and the next time we may meet with greater success.   It is only when we don’t try that we cannot accomplish our goals.

So, with that thought in mind, good luck and Happy New Year

Arthritis is a painful condition that affects the joints. There are different types of this debilitating illness; for example, inflammatory forms like rheumatoid arthritis are rooted in auto immune conditions and can surface at younger ages. In this situation, the immune system malfunctions and wears away at the cartilage surrounding the bone.

Osteoarthritis, amore common type of arthritis, takes place over time and tends to be the result of wear and tear. This kind of frequently occurs in more advanced years.

All types of arthritis, nonetheless, can be damaging. Because of this, employment can become disrupted, and normal activities can grow considerably limited. In fact, arthritis is a major cause of disability in the United States, commonly because of the stiffness and pain it causes. And, since arthritis can negatively impact an individual’sway of life, it can spur on depression, anxiety, and heightened stress, as well.

Chiropractic care is an effective treatment for arthritis symptoms. Adjustments work to restore alignment, and this correction often results in improved flexibility, better range of motion, enhanced joint mobility, and inflammation reduction. It’s important to mention that chiropractic care typically cannot cure arthritis, but it can diminish its devastating effects so that more normal activities can be resumed. Infact, research has indicated that this natural treatment has resulted in an impressive reduction of arthritis pain and stiffness. Furthermore, when used with other therapies like a sound nutrition program, exercise regimen,and appropriate supplements, the improvements can be dramatic!

Arthritis causing you pain? Then schedule an appointment with Healing Hands Chiropractic Care and get on a more comfortable road.