Pain: A Warning Sign

My neck, my back, my arm, my knees, my stomach, my head....... Pain can be experienced anywhere on (or in) the body.  Why does this occur?  What can we do to stop it?  These are the multi-billion dollar questions that have undergone years of research and have baffled some of the brightest minds in the scientific community.

In truth, pain is one of medicine's greatest mysteries.  The word "pain" stems from the Latin poena, which means a fine or a penalty.  This is exactly how most people view their physical symptoms.  Rather than looking at the outward sensation of physical pain as a burden or punishment, we need to understand that pain is a good thing.  It reminds us that we are human and serves a purpose similar to a 'check engine' light in the dashboard of our car. 

The bad news: by the time pain is expressed, your body is already in a state of stress and anatomical structures are compromised.  The good news: there are plenty of options for effective and non-invasive treatments.

Conservative Care- Chiropractic care has been repeatedly shown to be the most effective treatment option for neck pain, back pain, and headaches.  Major studies published in the most well respected medical journals have demonstrated spinal adjustments to be less expensive, more effective, show greater functional improvement, and have better long-term outcomes than any other treatment.

Nutrition- Foods have the ability to contribute to stress and inflammation within your body or to help your body stay healthy.  Certain food toxins even have the ability to trigger pain and a variety of other physical symptoms, most commonly headaches.  The doctors at American Chiropractic promote an Alkaline based diet, high in antioxidants and rich in nutrients to provide your body with the raw materials to heal and recover properly.

Exercise- One of the major theories behind pain is that there is a muscular imbalance occurring within the body.  Inactive and unconditioned muscles often become more susceptible to injury and pain. This is why proper posture is so important and staying active is absolutely essential for your health.  Yoga, pilates, walking, running, and functional training are all great ways to stay active and maintain balanced muscles.   

Of course, what you think about and are consciously thankful for comes into your life more readily.  Be thankful every day for the body you have and the health you keep.