Lifestyle can have a huge impact on an individual’s health; patients that visit the chiropractor will often be advised on how to change their lifestyle in order to improve their overall health.
Exercise
Exercise is an integral part of keeping healthy; the body needs regular exercise in order to function effectively and efficiently. Experts recommend that adults do at least three thirty minute cardiovascular exercise sessions per week in order to keep fit and healthy; additional strength, flexibility and toning exercises are also extremely beneficial and should be done on a regular basis. Exercise raises the heart rate, increases circulation and warms the muscles; these actions reduce stiffness, prevent muscle spasms and help to keep the heart beating at a healthy rate. Keeping body weight stable is also an important result of exercise; many people in the UK suffer from aches and pains because they are overweight; the additional weight they are carrying around places constant strain on the muscles, vital organs and bones. Back pain is particularly common in those who are overweight and obese.
Diet
Diet is extremely important; a healthy diet can dramatically reduce the likelihood of a patient suffering from both minor and serious health conditions. A healthy diet contributes to an efficient immune system, as well as providing the nutrients, minerals and vitamins that are vital for the organs and bodily systems to function properly. Experts recommend a diet that is high in protein, complex carbohydrates and fruits and vegetables and low is saturated fats and sugars; eating a balanced diet will ensure the body gets all the goodness it needs. It is advised that adults eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables each day.
Diet is also key to maintaining a stable body weight; carrying excessive weight can apply significant amounts of pressure to the musculoskeletal system and vital organs; this can contribute to serious health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and strokes, as well as causing chronic conditions such as back pain.
Sleep
The amount of sleep an individual gets can have implications for their general health; a lack of sleep can cause the body to be worn down, which can make it prone to illness. A lack of sleep can also exacerbate existing health conditions and increase the time it takes the body to recover after an illness or injury. Chiropractors can suggest ways to improve sleep patterns and offer practical tips and advice on how to ensure patients get the amount and quality of sleep their body needs to stay fit and healthy.
Mental health
A patient’s mental health can impact significantly on their physical health; the well known phrase, ‘healthy mind, healthy body’ is certainly supported by the philosophy of chiropractic. Chiropractors can help improve patient’s mental health by offering advice on tackling stress, combating anxiety and increasing self-confidence.
Posture
Poor posture can be a major cause of back and neck pain. Nowadays, with so many people having office-based sedentary jobs, back and neck pain are increasingly common. Chiropractors can help to correct the alignment of the spine and suggest techniques and exercises to improve posture.
Injury prevention
This area of chiropractic treatment is aimed at professional and amateur sports players, who are prone to injury due to the amount of pressure that is placed on the muscles and bodily systems during repeated strenuous exercise. Chiropractic treatments, such as massage therapy and stretching, can be used to condition the body, which will make it more resistant to injury in the future. Chiropractic can also enhance performance by increasing the range of movement and flexibility around the joints and improving muscle tone. Chiropractors can also suggest effective warm-up and cool-down exercises and stretches which will pain, help to prepare then body for exercise and then recover quickly once the session is completed.
Lifting
Many people have jobs where they are required to lift heavy objects on a regular basis; this kind of action can place significant strain on the muscles and tissues in the back, knees, hips, neck and shoulders. Chiropractors can help to address the source of pain, as well as suggesting ways to ensure the joints are protected and supported during the lift. During lifting, the feet should be planted firmly on a flat surface and should be shoulder width apart; the knees should be bent and the back should be completely straight.