Put to Bed a Common Nighttime Nuisance
Bad dreams aren’t the only night-time nuisances that can wake your child up.
Leg pains, which are commonly referred to as “growing pains,” are likely to affect 25-40% of children ages 2-12 years.
Conventional medical suggestions may involve massaging the legs and using analgesics to provide pain relief, but there may be a natural way to alleviate leg pains — chiropractic.
How might chiropractic care benefit your child’s leg pain?
These pains can be the result of stress to the nervous system. Since chiropractic focuses on disorders of the musculosketal and the nervous systems, our gentle adjustments may help restore mobility and possibly help those pesky nighttime leg pains.
In addition, ensuring that your child is well hydrated can help prevent painful muscle cramps. Stretches to the lower back, quadriceps and hamstrings may also be helpful in managing leg pain.
Be Kind to Your Spine
While the legendary strength of Sherpas allows them to carry heavy loads in the Himalayas, toting hefty backpacks puts a strain on people worldwide, from school-age children to mountain climbers.
According to the Global Burden of Disease 2010, low back pain is the single leading cause of disability worldwide.
It’s no surprise that heavy backpacks are some of the culprits when it comes to back pain. Postural changes, pain and red marks left on the skin are some of the signs your backpack may be too heavy.
Avoid looking like the Hunchback of Notre Dame by selecting a backpack with two wide shoulder straps that are padded for comfort.
Be sure the backpack has a waist strap to take the weight off the back and multiple compartments to help distribute weight evenly.
Rule of thumb – your filled backpack should weigh no more than 15% of your body weight.
Treat your spine right and lighten your load by selecting the right backpack. Your back will thank you.
Posture’s Profound Effect on Mental Health
Have you ever noticed the body language of someone who is depressed or feeling blue? Our posture is the first thing others notice about us.
Poor posture can lead to a more depressed mental state and feelings of lethargy.
We may have grown up hearing a parent or teacher say, “Stand up straight.” Not only does good posture improve one’s appearance and air of confidence, but it can also boost one’s mood and overall well-being.
Erik Peper, Ph.D, a professor at San Francisco State University, conducted an experiment to determine how posture affected a person’s ability to produce both positive and negative thoughts. The results? The participants who sat up straight communicated that it was easier to summon positive thoughts and memories.
By perfecting your posture you can positively impact your attitude, mental health, energy level and the way others treat you. Maintain your positive outlook with regular chiropractic care. After all, we are the posture experts!
