To Your Health Newsletter: An Unhealthy Spine Equals An Unhealthy You - March 27, 2012 | toyourhealth.com

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March 27, 2012 - Volume 6, Issue 7

Unhealthy Spine, Unhealthy You: What Your Spine Says About Your Health

You may have heard the saying, "The eyes are the window to the soul." There is another saying in the world of chiropractic: "Your spine is the window to your health." How can the condition of your spine divulge so much information about overall health? Your spine is the central support column of your body and its primary role is to protect your spinal cord. Becoming familiar with simple spinal anatomy, structure and function will help empower you to take control of your health.

What are some of the compensations your body develops, and what can they tell you about spinal health? Here are a few to watch out for:

Rounded Shoulders: This is a very common postural distortion resulting from more sedentary lifestyles. Common effects are headaches, shoulder, pain and neck pain.

Uneven shoulders: One shoulder higher than the other is indicative of a muscular imbalance or spinal curvature. This asymmetry is a common precursor for shoulder injuries, headaches, neck pain, elbow injuries and even carpal tunnel syndrome (tingling in the hands).

Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD): DDD is term used to describe degeneration and excessive wear on the soft-tissue disc structures between the spinal bones. It may come with age or from biomechanical asymmetries in movement causing excessive wear from overuse.

Herniated disc: A herniated disc is an abnormal bulge or breaking open of a protective spinal disc or cushioning between spinal bones. Disc diagnosis is conformed via a special imaging study called an MRI (\Magnetic Resonance Imaging), which observes soft- and hard-tissue structures.

If you experience spinal pain, tingling, numbness, weakness, muscles spasms or swelling near your spine or arms and legs, consult with your chiropractor. And remember, these are just some of the many ways the spine can influence the rest of the body. Talk to your chiropractor to learn more about what your spine says about your health.

Moving Beyond Medication for ADHD

Did you know that ADHD can affect adults, not just children? That ADHD sufferers often have as many, if not more positive attributes, including creativity, passion and intuition? And that your doctor of chiropractic can play a significant role in treating ADHD patients?

It's Important to Exercise Your Brain

Just like any other muscle, the brain can get in shape, be strengthened and developed with use - exercise. Studies suggest that exercising the brain may not only stave off brain degeneration, but in many cases also reverse memory loss and improve mental agility.

Five Ways to Get Moving While You're at Work

You're imprisoned at your desk job from 9 to 5, stuck to your chair and glued to your screen. How can add movement to your motionless day? Try these four easy exercise strategies to break up your mundane routine and fulfill your daily activity requirements.

Know Your Fundamental Nutrition

Which nutritional supplements should you be taking on a daily basis? With the constant stream of media and research reports out there, you may be confused on the best course of action. Let's clear up the confusion today.

Take Care of Your Vision

As we age, our eyes need more rest, oxygenation, hydration and nutrients for healthy functioning. Other factors play a key role in optimal eye function as well; want to know what they are?

This issue features a number of articles you will want to share with your family, friends and co-workers. Please feel free to forward this newsletter to them via e-mail. If you have received this e-mail newsletter from someone else, you may subscribe free of charge and begin receiving your own copy.

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All Rights Reserved, To Your Health, 2012.

The information provided is for general interest only and should not be misconstrued as a diagnosis, prognosis or treatment recommendation. This information does not in any way constitute the practice of chiropractic, acupuncture, massage therapy, medicine, or any other health care profession. Readers are directed to consult their health care provider regarding their specific health situation. MPA Media is not liable for any action taken by a reader based upon this information.