WELLNESS

Women’ s Health Women’ s Health& Chiropractic

By Dr. Aaron Dutruch D.C.

THE AVERAGE CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC IN THE US HAS A PATIENT POPULATION THAT IS APPROXIMATELY 60 PERCENT FEMALE. THIS COULD BE FOR ANY NUMBER OF REASONS, BUT IN MY PERSONAL EXPERIENCE, MY FEMALE PATIENTS ARE SIMPLY MORE IN TUNE WITH THEIR BODIES AND ARE MORE WILLING TO LOOK FOR HELP TO MAKE SURE THEY ARE FEELING THEIR BEST. THE MOST COMMON REASON THESE PATIENTS SEEK CARE IS FOR LOWER BACK PAIN FOLLOWED BY NECK PAIN AND HEADACHES.

Lower back pain can have many causes, in my female patient base, I see a lot of pelvic dysfunctions, and core instability.

Pelvic dysfunction refers to abnormal or restricted motion of the pelvis (the sacroiliac joint) which can cause a sharp pain when going from a seated to a standing position or bending forward, as well as chronic tension in the upper gluteal region. This can also lead to similar symptoms seen in sciatica. A weakened core causes a change in the patient’s center of gravity, placing more pressure on to the joints of the lower back instead of the discs and vertebral bodies that are designed to handle those pressures.

This can lead to disc degeneration and cause numbness/tingling or pain down the leg, as well as chronic lower back tension and local pain. Neck pain and headaches are often found together and can be caused by several things, most commonly, I find that increased tension within the muscles of the neck and upper back play a major role in these problems. This tension in the neck is often the bodies way to compensate for poor biomechanics (posture) as well as outside stresses in the patient’s life.

Treatment for these patients can fluctuate depending on the specific cause of the condition, but most benefit greatly from regular chiropractic adjustments to the affected region, as well as manual therapy to reduce muscle tension. Regular exercise is also crucial for patients in helping to maintain core strength and endurance. It is also an excellent tool to help manage stress levels. Studies have shown that regular exercise can increase a person’s ability to handle outside stressors. The exercise can be as simple as going for regular walks, which is also very beneficial for the female population because weight bearing exercise reduces the likelihood of developing osteoporosis, which is a condition that more regularly effects the female population. This condition is a decrease in bone density, frequently noted in the hips and can increase the risk for fractures and degeneration of the hip joints. Yoga and Palates are also a great way to increase your postural awareness and reduce stress.

In summary: Although there are several reasons to visit a chiropractic office, the most common reason our female population seeks help is for lower back pain, neck pain and headaches. These conditions benefit greatly from regular chiropractic adjustments and exercise. Over my time treating, I have noted several patients that haven’t been able to begin exercise due to pain. Chiropractic may be one of the best starting points for a patient that is looking to start on a journey to better health and overall wellness. If you are wanting to start feeling and moving better, reach out to a chiropractor near you so they can do their best to help you reach your goals.

Kale By Charlie Betley

Kale is considered to be one of the healthiest foods in the world, containing a rich supply of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and compounds that help to fight disease. Kale can be used in salads, smoothies, sandwiches, soups and a range of homemade dishes. It's usually best to lightly cook or eat kale raw, as the cooking process can destroy nutrients.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

Kale is rich in powerful antioxidants, including zeaxanthin, lutein and quercetin, as well as a range of flavonoids and polyphenols. These compounds can strengthen the immune system and prevent serious disease. Antioxidants also help to protect cells by neutralizing damage caused by free radicals and harmful

UV rays.

Kale contains a wide range of vitamins and is one of the best food sources of beta-carotene and vitamin

C. A single cup of kale contains more than the recommended daily intake of both vitamin A and vitamin C.

Kale contains significant amounts of several B vitamins and is one of the best sources of vitamin K, which is needed for blood clotting.

Kale is loaded with minerals that are essential for the body to function properly. A cup of kale contains around 25 percent of the recommended daily intake of manganese. It also contains more than five percent of the recommended daily intake of calcium, magnesium, potassium and copper, as well as small amounts of iron, phosphorus and alpha-linolenic acid.

HEALTH BENEFITS

Several studies have shown that the antioxidants found in kale can help to protect against cancer. Kale is rich in quercetin, kaempferol and polyphenols that can fight cancer cells. These compounds also contain anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that can protect against other illnesses. Kale contains significant amounts of beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin, all of which help to protect the eyes. Studies have linked intake of these antioxidants to a reduced risk of cataracts, macular degeneration and other eye problems.

Potassium, calcium, magnesium and other nutrients found in kale help to protect the cardiovascular system by lowering high blood pressure and reducing cholesterol levels in the blood. One study suggested that drinking kale juice every day can reduce levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol in the blood, while also increasing levels of HDL (good) cholesterol.

While most people can include kale as part of their daily diet, a small number of people experience negative symptoms, such as skin reactions and digestive problems. In addition, kale may not be suitable for people with kidney stones, as it contains oxalic acid, which can make the problem worse.