Whiplash injury? Now what?

Whiplash is a common injury that can cause pain, discomfort, and limited neck, shoulders, and back mobility. It can happen as a result of car accidents, sports injuries, or any trauma that causes a sudden jolt to the head and neck. 

Fortunately, chiropractic care is a safe and effective treatment option for whiplash. Today’s chiropractors are highly skilled in treating a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including whiplash.

Our clinic director, Dr. Graham Jenkins, is one of only a handful of certified biophysics chiropractors in Canada.

If you’re dealing with whiplash, seeking chiropractic care from a certified biophysics chiropractor in Kelowna could be the key to a full recovery.

Whiplash Recovery: Why You Should Choose a Certified Biophysics Chiropractor(CBP) vs. Traditional Chiropractic Care.

Chiropractic care is a natural, non-invasive approach to healthcare that focuses on the musculoskeletal system. Chiropractors use their hands to manipulate the spine and other joints in the body to improve mobility, alleviate pain, and promote healing. However, there are different types of chiropractic techniques, including chiropractic biophysics (CBP). Here are three main differences between a CBP chiropractor and a traditional chiropractor:

Focus on Posture and Alignment

One of the main differences between a CBP chiropractor and a traditional chiropractor is their focus on posture and alignment. CBP chiropractors use various techniques to assess and correct postural imbalances, including digital X-rays, computerized measurements, and postural exercises. This approach aims to restore the natural curves of the spine and improve overall spinal alignment, which can help relieve pain, improve mobility, and promote optimal health.

In contrast, traditional chiropractors focus primarily on joint manipulation to improve mobility and reduce pain. While they may also address postural imbalances, it is not typically a central focus of their treatment approach.

The digital x-ray in our Kelowna clinic provides the documentation you will need to understand how much damage happened in your accident or trauma. A special x-ray series called a flexion/extension study is critical to understand how your neck is doing after an accident.

A Flexion/Extension x-ray series shows where the ligaments were damaged in your accident.
Use of Equipment and Technology

CBP chiropractors often use specialized equipment and technology to assess and treat patients. For example, they may use a drop table or a spinal decompression machine, like a three-dimensional Denneroll traction table, to help restore spinal alignment and relieve pressure on the nerves. They also use computerized measurements to track progress and adapt treatment plans as needed.

Traditional chiropractors may use some equipment, such as an adjusting table or a traction device, but they typically rely more heavily on manual adjustments and manipulations.

Holistic Approach to Care

CBP chiropractors take a holistic approach to care, which means they consider the whole person when developing a treatment plan. This may include addressing dietary and lifestyle factors that could be contributing to pain or other health issues. Helping you identify and break bad habits may be the key to your long-term success.

Traditional chiropractors tend to focus primarily on spinal adjustments and pain relief.

While both CBP chiropractors and traditional chiropractors may seem to have similar techniques to improve mobility and alleviate pain, there are significant differences in their approach to care. 

CBP chiropractors focus on postural alignment and use specialized equipment and technology while taking a more holistic approach to care.

Ultimately, it’s important to do your research and choose a chiropractor that aligns with your treatment goals and preferences.

Five ways a CBP chiropractor can help with your whiplash injury:

Diagnosis and Assessment of Whiplash

The first step in treating whiplash is to properly diagnose and assess the extent of the injury. A CBP chiropractor will perform a thorough physical exam, which may include X-rays, to determine the extent of the damage. Once a diagnosis is made, a customized treatment plan can be developed to help you heal.

Chiropractic Adjustments: Alleviating Pain and Restoring Range of Motion

Chiropractic adjustments are a common treatment for whiplash injuries. A CBP chiropractor will use gentle manipulations (either by hand or with a carefully calibrated instrument) to help realign the spine and reduce pain and inflammation. Adjustments can also help improve the range of motion, which is often limited in whiplash injuries.

Soft Tissue Therapy: Easing Muscle Tension and Boosting Circulation

Soft tissue therapy, such as massage or trigger point therapy, can help relieve muscle tension and improve circulation. Our Kelowna clinic has registered massage therapists, stretch therapists, and certified kinesiologists. This can help reduce pain and inflammation in the affected area.

Exercise and Rehabilitation: Strengthening Muscles and Preventing Future Injuries

Exercise and rehabilitation are important components of whiplash treatment. At Lighthouse, our chiropractors work with our certified kinesiologists to develop a customized exercise program to help you strengthen the affected muscles and improve your range of motion. This can help prevent future injuries and promote long-term healing.

Education and Support: Guidance for Lasting Recovery and Whiplash Prevention

Finally, our Kelowna clinic provides education and support throughout the healing process. Our team-based approach offers guidance on proper posture, ergonomics, and lifestyle modifications to help prevent future injuries.

Discover Local Expertise: Recover from Whiplash with Certified Chiropractic Biophysics in Kelowna

If you’re looking for chiropractic care for whiplash in Kelowna, it’s important to find a chiropractic clinic that offers certified chiropractic biophysics (CBP) treatment. This approach focuses on realigning the spine and correcting postural imbalances to promote optimal spinal function.

By taking a holistic approach to treatment, including chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, exercise, spinal traction, rehabilitation, education, and support, our Kelowna clinic can help you get back to your normal activities as quickly and safely as possible.

Conclusion

In conclusion, if you’ve been injured in a car accident or experienced any trauma that has caused whiplash, seeking chiropractic care can be a great option. Today’s CBP-certified chiropractors are highly skilled in treating whiplash injuries, and provide a customized treatment plan that addresses your individual needs.

If you’re in Kelowna, be sure to seek out a certified CBP chiropractor who offers treatment to ensure you’re getting the most effective care possible.

Chiropractic Care for Sciatica: How a Certified Chiropractic Biophysics Clinic in Kelowna Can Help

Are you struggling with the discomfort of sciatic pain? Sciatica, a widespread issue affecting millions globally, results from the compression or irritation of the body’s largest nerve – the sciatic nerve, extending from the lower back to the legs.

This debilitating condition can lead to pain, numbness, and discomfort in the lower back, buttocks, and legs, hindering daily activities and causing agony after sitting or upon waking.

For those suffering from sciatic pain, chiropractic care offers a viable solution. Led by our accomplished clinic director, Dr. Jenkins, a rare certified chiropractic biophysics doctor in Canada, our advanced Kelowna clinic possesses the cutting-edge technology necessary for diagnosing and treating sciatica effectively.

Chiropractic Care for Sciatica

Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, drug-free solution for sciatica treatment. Utilizing an array of techniques, our skilled chiropractors effectively alleviate sciatic pain through spinal adjustments, manual therapy, advanced three-dimensional spinal traction, and tailored exercise therapy programs.

The sciatic nerve starts in your lower back, crosses the hip, and goes all the way down your leg.
Effective Spinal Adjustments for Sciatic Pain Relief

Employing gentle spinal manipulation techniques, our expert chiropractors relieve sciatic nerve pressure either manually or with precision instruments. Recognizing the uniqueness of each spine and individual sciatic pain experience, we ensure personalized, custom-tailored adjustments catered to your specific needs.

Manual Therapy Techniques to Alleviate Sciatic Pain

Manual therapy, a hands-on approach, utilizes pressure and stretching techniques to ease sciatic pain. Our team of chiropractors, massage therapists, and certified fascial release therapists apply massage, trigger point therapy, and other specialized manual methods to decrease inflammation, enhance circulation, and boost the range of motion.

Strengthen Your Core with Customized Exercise Therapy

A comprehensive recovery from sciatic pain requires strengthening weakened areas of the spine, hips, and legs. Exercise therapy is a crucial component of chiropractic care for sciatica. Our chiropractors and kinesiologists design customized exercise plans to fortify core muscles and enhance posture. Robust core muscles, including abdominal and lower back muscles, provide spinal support, alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve, and contribute to improved overall spinal health.

Experience Three Dimensional Spinal Traction with the 3D Denneroll Table

The 3D Denneroll table is a specialized chiropractic biophysics table designed to help decompress the spine and lower back. Its unique 3D contour enables customized traction and stretching, tailored to each patient’s needs.

During a 3D Denneroll table session, the patient lies on the table, and the certified biophysics chiropractor adjusts the table to fit the spine’s natural curve. The patient’s legs are then elevated, and a series of foam blocks are placed under the hips and spine, creating a gentle stretch in the lower back and pelvis.

3D Denneroll Traction Table at Lighthouse Chiropractic in Kelowna

As the table is adjusted, the patient’s spine is gently elongated, creating space between the vertebrae and allowing for improved circulation and nerve function. The 3D contour of the table also helps to improve spinal alignment, which can reduce pain and improve overall spinal health.

The foam blocks used during a 3D Denneroll table session are designed to mimic the natural contours of the spine, providing customized support and stretching to the lower back. The gentle traction created by the table can help to relieve pressure on the spinal discs, reduce inflammation, and improve mobility.

Overall, the 3D Denneroll table is a valuable tool for certified biophysics chiropractors to use in the treatment of spinal conditions such as herniated discs, sciatica, and chronic lower back pain. 

Patients can experience reduced pain, improved mobility, and better overall spinal health by gently decompressing the spine and improving spinal alignment.

Choose Our Certified Chiropractic Biophysics Kelowna Clinic for Personalized Care

At our chiropractic clinic in Kelowna, we are committed to providing personalized care to each of our patients. Our clinic director, Dr. Jenkins, is certified in chiropractic biophysics, a specialized technique that focuses on the spine’s structure and its impact on overall health. We use state-of-the-art technology to assess your spinal health, identify underlying issues, and develop a customized treatment plan.

Being certified in chiropractic biophysics, a technique that emphasizes the use of spinal adjustments, spinal traction, and exercise to improve spinal alignment and overall health, means you have a team dedicated to excellent results and evidence-based care. Our team has the experience and expertise to diagnose and treat various spinal conditions, including sciatica.

If you’re looking for an effective, non-invasive, and drug-free approach to sciatica, chiropractic biophysics care may be the solution you’re looking for.

Conclusion

Sciatica can be a debilitating condition that affects your daily life. Chiropractic care for sciatica can be an effective solution, and our chiropractic biophysics clinic in Kelowna is here to help. With our personalized care, state-of-the-art technology, experience, and expertise in chiropractic biophysics, we can help you alleviate your sciatic pain and improve your overall spinal health. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a pain-free life.

What’s the big deal about water?

Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining good health and overall well-being. Water is the most important nutrient for our body, and it is essential for the proper functioning of all our bodily systems. In this blog post, we will discuss the many benefits of staying hydrated and why it is essential to drink enough water.

Increases Energy and Relieves Fatigue

One of the most important benefits of staying hydrated is that it increases energy and relieves fatigue. Water is required for all our bodily functions, and when we are dehydrated, our body has to work harder to perform these functions. This can lead to fatigue and tiredness. By staying hydrated, we can increase our energy levels and feel more alert and focused throughout the day.

Promotes Weight Loss

Drinking water can also help promote weight loss. When we drink water, it helps to fill our stomachs, making us feel fuller and less likely to overeat. Additionally, drinking water can increase our metabolism, which can help us burn more calories throughout the day.

Improves Brain Function

Water is essential for proper brain function. When we are dehydrated, our brain functions are impaired, leading to poor concentration, headaches, and fatigue. Drinking enough water can help improve our cognitive function, enhance our mood, and improve our memory.

Enhances Athletic Performance

Staying hydrated is especially important for athletes and those who engage in physical activity. Water is required for regulating body temperature, lubricating joints, and transporting nutrients throughout the body. Dehydration can lead to decreased athletic performance, increased fatigue, and muscle cramps. By staying hydrated, athletes can improve their endurance and perform at their best.

Helps Prevent Headaches

Many headaches are caused by dehydration. By staying hydrated, we can help prevent and treat headaches. Drinking water can help alleviate headaches caused by dehydration and can also help reduce the intensity and duration of migraines.

Improves Skin Health

Water is essential for maintaining healthy skin. It helps to keep our skin hydrated, which can prevent dryness and wrinkles. Drinking enough water can also help to flush toxins out of the body, which can help reduce the risk of skin breakouts and acne.

Conclusion

According to the Mayo Clinic the average adult requires 15.5 cups (3.7 liters) of fluids a day for men and 11.5 cups (2.7 liters) of fluids a day for women. These recommendations cover fluids from water, other beverages and food. About 20% of daily fluid intake usually comes from food and the rest from drinks.

Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining good health and well-being. Drinking enough water can provide many benefits, including increased energy, weight loss, improved brain function, enhanced athletic performance, headache prevention and treatment, and improved skin health. Make sure to drink enough water each day to reap the many benefits of staying hydrated.

How CBP Chiropractic approaches Migraines differently

Migraine headaches are a common neurological condition that affects millions of people worldwide. According to the Migraine Research Foundation, migraines are the third most prevalent illness in the world. Allopathic medicine provides various medications to manage migraines, such as analgesics, triptans, and antiemetics. While these medications can be effective, they don’t always address the root cause of the problem. This is where a CBP chiropractor differs from an allopathic physician.

CBP, or Chiropractic BioPhysics, is a highly specialized branch of chiropractic care that focuses on restoring the normal alignment and function of the spine. Unlike traditional chiropractic, CBP chiropractors use a unique, scientific approach to diagnose and treat the underlying cause of a patient’s condition, rather than just treating the symptoms.

Did you know your posture is related to migraine headaches?

When it comes to migraine headaches, CBP chiropractors approach the condition differently than allopathic physicians. While medication can be helpful in reducing the symptoms of migraines, it doesn’t address the underlying issue. CBP chiropractors aim to identify the root cause of migraines and address it using a holistic approach.

One of the primary causes of migraines is poor posture. Poor posture can cause tension and stress in the neck and shoulder muscles, which can lead to migraines. CBP chiropractors use advanced diagnostic tools to assess  posture and identify any misalignments in the spine.

Typical postural problems that will aggravate conditions like migraine headaches.
Exercise, Adjustments and Traction is the CBP trifecta

Once misalignments are identified, CBP chiropractors use a combination of spinal adjustments, exercises, and traction to correct the underlying issue. This approach is much different from allopathic medicine, which primarily relies on medications to manage symptoms.

CBP doctors will tackle the lifestyle factors as well

In addition to correcting misalignments, CBP chiropractors also provide patients with advice on lifestyle changes that can help reduce the frequency and intensity of migraines. This includes dietary changes, stress management, and exercise.

Conclusion

Overall, a CBP chiropractor approaches migraines differently than an allopathic physician. While medication can be helpful in reducing the symptoms of migraines, it doesn’t address the underlying issue. CBP chiropractors use a holistic approach to identify and correct the root cause of migraines, resulting in long-term relief and improved overall health. If you suffer from migraines, consider having a conversation with Dr. Jenkins, our clinic director and one only a handful of certified CBP chiropractors in Canada.

You may be encouraged to know that there is more that can be done to help you live a life with far fewer migraines or even migraine free.

3D Spinal Traction in a CBP Office

Chiropractic Biophysics (CBP) is a chiropractic technique that focuses on the structural and postural correction of the spine. One of the techniques used by CBP doctors is spinal traction, which is a non-invasive and pain-free method of stretching the spine to relieve pressure and improve posture. Lighthouse is one of only a handful of certified Biophysics offices in Canada.

Scoliosis is a condition where the spine is curved to one side, leading to imbalanced pressure on the vertebral discs and joints, as well as decreased range of motion and discomfort. CBP doctors who specialize in scoliosis use in-office spinal traction to help alleviate these symptoms and improve the overall health of the spine.

How In-Office Spinal Traction Works

In-office spinal traction involves the use of a traction device that gently stretches the spine, allowing the vertebral discs to return to their natural position. This helps to relieve pressure on the discs and joints, promoting increased blood flow and improved mobility.

During the procedure, the patient lies on a specially designed table that provides the necessary support for the spine to be stretched. The traction device is then attached to the table, and the patient’s spine, and the doctor adjusts the amount of tension according to the patient’s comfort level.

Benefits of In-Office Spinal Traction for Scoliosis Patients

The entire process typically lasts for about 15-20 minutes and is completely pain-free. The in-office spinal traction procedure can be performed on an ongoing basis, and most patients notice an improvement in their symptoms after just a few sessions.

In-office spinal traction offers several benefits to scoliosis patients, including:

Alleviates Pressure on the Spine: The gentle stretching provided by in-office spinal traction helps to relieve pressure on the vertebral discs and joints, reducing discomfort and promoting improved posture.

Increases Mobility: The increased blood flow and improved posture provided by in-office spinal traction helps to increase mobility and range of motion, allowing for better overall function.

Non-Invasive and Pain-Free: Unlike other treatments for scoliosis, such as surgery, in-office spinal traction is a non-invasive and pain-free option that provides effective results without the need for medications or invasive procedures.

Customizable to Each Patient: Each in-office spinal traction session is tailored to the individual patient, considering their comfort level, symptoms, and overall health.

Conclusion

In-office spinal traction is an effective treatment option for scoliosis patients, offering a non-invasive and pain-free solution to relieve pressure on the spine and improve overall posture and mobility.

If you are a scoliosis patient or concerned that you may have scoliosis, our clinic director, Dr. Jenkins is a certified CBP doctor who specializes in spinal traction and structural corrective chiropractic care. If you’d like to speak to Dr. Jenkins to see if this type of care is right for you then give Lighthouse a call.

When it comes to managing scoliosis and getting your spine and nerve system in order, sooner is always better than later.

Building health and happiness in times of unprecedented stress.
Fear and anxiety drains our natural defences; 3 things we can do about it.

As early as 1999, scientists were measuring the negative impact that anxiety has on human health (1). I’m sure that is no surprise to you.

I think all of us have had times where we felt the weight of the world on our shoulders emotionally — and not long after came down with the sniffles.

During this time of “post covid” extreme stress it becomes critical to keep our emotions and anxiety in check (2). Not only for the “mental health and well-being” of those around us but for ourselves as well.

Step 1; Change the channel.

Limit how much news you are exposing yourself to. I understand it’s important to keep “up to date” but checking for updates a couple times a day rather than once an hour will really help you keep your anxiety in check.

I’d also encourage you to just check reputable news sources and stay off social media. Social media not helping the accuracy of information that is available so do yourself a favor and just stay off social. If ever there was a time to take a break from social media, now is it.

On a personal note, I’ve started to listen to some positive podcasts that have nothing to do with science or health, even though that is my “world”. Putting more positivity into my brain is really helping me stay stable for those around me and sane (for me).

Step 2; Do everything you can to maintain your natural defence system.

This is something that is completely under your control. I’d suggest, in times of stress, rather than doubling up on how much toilet paper you buy, double up on anything you can put in your body that maintains your bodies natural defences.

In addition to our regular routine of “health building” supplements, my family and I have added even more to ensure our body is fighting back with everything it’s got. Here’s a short list of what I take personally.

In the morning; a glutathione precursor, fish oil, multi vitamin/mineral, green drink and vitamin D and then in the evening; 5HTP, magnesium citrate and curcumin. Every second or third night I add a probiotic just to keep my gut health in check.

Yes there is always more that you can add but I want to remind everyone that supplements are supplements and not meal replacements – get most of your nutrition from healthy, whole foods first and then add your supplements based on your health history and genetics. Clean protein sources is becoming far more important than in years past — the number of chemicals in our protein is getting completely out of control!

If you’re really keen on maintaining your natural defences then I’d also crank up the veggie intake and decrease the sugar. Which is never a bad idea.

Step 3; Keep on keeping on.

In our social isolation it’s tough to keep up our regular routine but as much as possible keep doing as much as you can in a responsible way.

I’m fortunate, as an essential service, I’m always able to continue to serve people who are in critical need of chiropractic care. You wouldn’t believe the number of people in crisis that have expressed thanks for us taking the necessary steps to continue to serve.

If your world has been “forever changed” through working from home here are some suggestions, not all of these will work for your situation but even if one or two fit your new lifestyle then it may be enough to keep you connected with people you enjoy and love.

1. Schedule virtual meetings or calls with colleagues to stay in touch and connected.

2. Join online communities or forums related to your work.

3. Make time for online socializing with friends and family.

4. Set up a standing coffee date with a friend or colleague to stay connected and socialize.

5. Take part in virtual events or classes related to your work.

6. Schedule regular breaks throughout the day and take the time to talk to family, friends, or colleagues.

7. Check in with your team in person, if possible, and make sure you have a social plan for lunch or after–work activities.

8. Try to take part in physical activities such as walking, running, or cycling, so you can stay physically active as well as socially connected.

What I missed the most.

Where I missed the biggest part of my routine was my workouts. With my gym closed it wasn’t easy to get a workout in.

I did find some incredible resources online from short body weight workouts (no weights needed) to Pilates classes and everything else you can imagine (foam rolling, stretching classes, etc. . . ).

Staying physically active is not only good for your body but great for your brain and immune response. You tube is a great tool to ensure you get proper instruction and some motivation too.

I did take the plunge and equipped my garage with some work out gear so I won’t ever be stuck again. But not everyone has the space or the desire to have a home gym. You’ll be amazed at what people have posted on line and in a pinch you’re going to find something to keep you active.

Final thought.

Remember the virus that caused so much stress and anxiety impacted all of us. The key to success is your personal health status. People with underlying health conditions didn’t fair as well as people who have always managed their health well.

Reports documented that people with a healthy nerve system and strong natural defence may still have gotten sick but they recovered with little to no need for hospitalization (3).

The reports are showing that it all depends on the strength of the person who gets sick.

Help yourself by staying healthy and keep the things in your life that build health going in a responsible way.

If you have any questions please feel free to reach out to my personal email [email protected] and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.

Yours in health,

Dr. J

References.
  1. Worry, the cognitive enumeration and anticipation of potential future negative events, is associated with autonomic dysregulation, which may in turn have implications for the immune system. (Brain Behav Immun. 1999 Jun;13(2):80-92.) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10373274
  2. Significant evidence suggests that exposure to traumatic and/or acute stress in both mice and humans results in compromised immune function that in turn may affect associated brain processes. (Brain Behav Immun. 2014 May; 0: 192–201.) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3989422/
  3. https://www.cnn.com/2020/04/04/health/recovery-coronavirus-tracking-data-explainer/index.html
Lower Back Pain and Beating Spinal Arthritis with New Technology
Lower back pain and arthritis are one of the most common complaints that pervade modern health care. If you add headaches and neck pain we’ve pretty much covered 65% of the daily complaints at the doctor’s office.
 
Recommendations from the American College of Physicians don’t help. They say, ignore your lower back pain and it will go away. If you don’t believe me then you can read this article on their “new” recommendations in the New York Times.
 
Not one mention of early intervention by a chiropractor.
 
If you are fortunate enough to have a family doctor who recommends today’s chiropractic then you don’t need to read any further. You’ve likely already been told to take action and get to a chiropractor.
 
Progressive doctors don’t go by the “wait and see” recommendation because they know that spinal conditions may go “silent” for a while but they don’t go away by themselves.
 

Why I wrote this article

But if you’re like the majority of new patients to my office, you’ll likely need to do your own research and this is why I’ve written this article.
 
I’m going to keep this short because the x-ray images speak for themselves. I’ll also share with you the “short list” of symptoms this patient had. I say “short list” because he had lots of aches and pains, I’ll stay focused on the lower back pain.
 

John’s case of lower back pain and sciatica

John (not his real name) came in after a neighbour had encouraged him to give my office a call. He was bending over because of his back pain. John was limited to walking for 150m before he had to take a break because his pain was too severe.
 
He was told he had spinal arthritis and was given Celebrex for the pain. As long as he took Celebrex he was able to move around but without it he would seize up completely.
 
We took weight bearing x-rays to determine the damage in his spine and this is what we found. These are x-rays of the lower back from the side.
The x-ray on the right is John, the x-ray on the left is a near normal. If you look closely you can see that John has several misshapen vertebrae and several discs that have degenerated.
 
He also has a condition where the ligaments that hold his spine are so loose that the vertebra slides forward on the vertebrae below (anterolisthesis). This causes tremendous pressure on the spinal cord and is why he was in so much pain. Here is a close up of that section of his spine.
Fortunately we have a better plan than what the New York Times was reporting (wait and see).
Today’s technology allows us to work intelligently with the spine and slowly bring it back.
In John’s case he went from walking a few meters to walking for most of the day without being forced to sit down.
 
Here are his before and after x-rays. This was after just a few weeks.
Corrected x-rays of an advanced arthritic lower spine with low back pain and sciatica
And here is a close up of the anterolisthesis.
Example of a degenerated, arthritic spine that correction is possible with today's corrective chiropractic care, chiropractic biophysics certified, denneroll table, kelowna chiropractor

Today’s Technology in Chiropractic

More advanced chiropractic offices are equipped with technology that can deal effectively with spinal conditions. In this case, very specific spinal corrective adjustments and a Denneroll Table. I’ve included a brief video of Dr. Deed Harrison of the Ideal Spine Centre in Eagle, ID speaking about the Denneroll Table.

This was not the “set up” that John required because each Denneroll set up is individualized for the patient’s specific needs based on their spinal condition.

 
This is why it’s critical to have accurate x-rays and see a chiropractor that is current and has the necessary technology to help with correcting your spine.
 
So if you’re suffering with lower back pain, hip pain or sciatica and this is new information to you then maybe a call to Lighthouse might get you started on your road to recovery.
 
Today’s chiropractic is very different than 20 years ago and many people don’t know how effective today’s chiropractic has become.
 
I hope this article has been encouraging if you or a loved one is suffering.
 
There may be help, so give us a call and we’ll see if there is something that can be done to help you with your lower back pain.
 
If you’re not in the Okanagan Valley, we are connected to some of the most advanced chiropractic corrective offices in North America. We might be able to refer you to an office that can help, so give us a call.
 
Talk soon,
Dr. J
The top 10 things successful people do in the summer to get and stay healthy in the Okanagan; Episode 3

The top 10 things successful people do in the summer to get and stay healthy in the Okanagan; Episode 3


If you’ve been watching our Top 10 List videos, or reading our blog posts, you’ll know that we’ve produced 2 previous episodes in our Top 10 list of what successful people do in the summer to stay healthy in the Okanagan.

Congrats for sticking with us and if you haven’t been privy to episode 1 and 2 then just poke around our Facebook page or our You Tube Channel or take a look HERE for episode 1 or HERE for episode 2

Today we’re going to count down from #4 to #1 so I hope you’re ready to get motivated because we’re shooting for 100+ years of age in great health.

#4 Manage your sleep better.

It’s tempting to stay up later with our longer days so if we do find ourselves out past our bed time on a consistent basis during the summer than something needs to give.

Depriving ourselves of 7.5 to 8.5 hours of sleep a night may seem fine but long term health studies show those who rob themselves of sleep over long stretches of time open themselves up to more disease and an early death.

Quality Sleep Lighthouse Chiropractic Dr. Graham D. Jenkins Kelowna Chiropractor

The “warrior mentality” is bad for your long term health. Don’t do it, even if you think you can get away with it.

The healthiest people in our community may have the odd late night with friends or watch some summertime fireworks, but they are quick to get back into routine and get recharged and refreshed with regular and full sleep cycles.

#3 Exchange your second cup of coffee for something different.

Hey, I love a good cup of coffee more than I should but keeping it to just one a day is the key to enjoy your “cup of joe” without it eroding your long term health.

A good substitute would be green tea if you’re looking for a warm pick me up in the afternoon and a great strategy that I’ve adopted is stoping in at a place like Glow Juicery for a fresh pressed juice for my afternoon pick me up.

Yes it comes with a price tag but it’s not every day and the energy boost you get from healthy things like green teas and fresh pressed juices will keep you coming back for more.

healthy smoothie fish oil collagen lighthouse chiropractic dr graham d jenkins kelowna chiropractor

Green tea and fresh pressed juices won’t derail your adrenal’s like the supercharged caffeinated drinks or sugar laden specialty drinks from your neighbourhood java dealer:) Get your fix in the morning and stick with a healthier, healing option in the afternoon.

#2 The healthiest people in our community actually double their efforts to get to the gym

It seems counterintuitive to head inside for a workout when the weather is incredible but you will find the healthiest people in our community are actually getting an extra workout in every week or two.

extra workout trainer lighthouse chiropractic dr graham d jenkins kelowna chiropractor

The extra glass of wine in the evening, or the specialty bread with fabulous cheese with your summer visitors will add up by the Labor Day weekend. The healthiest people in our community adjust their energy output to match.

It doesn’t need to be a lot but it does need to mirror our extra dining adventures in the summer in the Okanagan.

And finally. . . .

The #1 thing the healthiest people in our community do to get and stay healthy in the summer is that they absolutely stay on track with their health care team.

As far as their chiro appointments, they stick to their schedule based on their diagnosis and if they are away for an extended period they either stack some adjustments before they go so they are in great shape when they are on holiday, or they are quick to make them up when they are back so they get their momentum back on track.

Healthy people know that when they are the busiest, their adjustments have the most impact. It is not a time to back off, in fact it’s the complete opposite they lean in so they can do more.

They also keep on track with their RMT and their muscle work to ensure all the increased summer activity doesn’t leave them beat up in September.

chiropractic adjustment lighthouse chiropractic dr graham d jenkins kelowna chiropractor

Successful people who are healthy keep the right things going all summer long.

And yes, I don’t mind stating the obvious. The healthiest people in our community are under regular chiropractic care because today’s chiropractic looks after the most important structure in the body, the brain, brain stem and spinal cord.

So if you are expecting to live a long and healthy life and ignore your nerve system then I’m afraid you’re going to be really disappointed. On the other hand, if you are looking for strategies to build and sustain health then you really need to take a closer look at todays chiropractic and what it has to offer.

And if you’re interested in truly upgrading your health then give Lighthouse Chiropractic and Integrative Health a call.

I am confident if you are looking for an accurate diagnosis, a team that puts your needs first, and won’t waste your time then you’ll be happy here.

The people that are attracted to Lighthouse understand that you need to invest in your health long term and are looking for doctors who are willing to build relationship on mutual trust and respect.

You can connect with us through the details at the end of this video, and if you liked what you heard it would be great if you could give our video a like, share it with your friends and generally help us get the word out. The more healthy and vibrant people we have in our community the better. Let’s do our best to empty out the hospital!

Thanks and I’ll talk to you soon,

Dr. J

The top 10 things people do in the summer to get and stay healthy; Episode 2

The top 10 things people do in the summer to get and stay healthy; Episode 2

What is in Episode 2?

The other day I shared with you 3 strategies that successful people use in the summer to get and stay healthy. Today’s episode will focus on our next 3 tips in our top 10 list. So without any further delay let’s keep this top 10 list going.

#7 Drink more water and add a special ingredient

It makes sense to drink more water in the summer but did you know that about every third glass or bottle of water should contain electrolytes?

When we sweat, we sweat out more than water and if your electrolytes become imbalanced then our body can stiffen up, get weaker and even confuse the cardio vascular system.

I am not a fan of sugary sports drinks that market themselves as sports nutrition, when it comes to electrolytes, you get what you pay for. I personally use a product from Hammer Nutrition for my electrolyte needs — but simply adding a pinch of sea salt to your bottle is enough to do the trick for most people.

electrolytes in your water kelowna chiropractor Graham Jenkins Lighthouse Chiropractic

Yes it does add a bit of taste to the water but remember it’s only every 3rd or 4th bottle.

One of the classic signs that you’re electrolyte balance is off, especially magnesium, is leg cramps or spasms at night. So follow this tip and it will really help you out.

#6 Fat’s are where it’s at.

Don’t forget to keep the fish oil and MCT (coconut oil) flowing during the summer.

Our culture had demonized fat’s. Grains are the real issue. 4-5 grams of a good quality fish oil and at least a tablespoon of coconut oil each day will keep your brain functioning better and protect you from a host of degenerative conditions.

If you want more on that then start watching my webinars that we have on our Lighthouse webinar page. Whither it’s heart disease, Alzheimer’s or our nutrition webinars, you will hear the real science behind healthy fats and it will radically change your opinion on how much fat, and the types of fats you should be consuming.

#5 Vitamin D is just not for January and February

The healthiest people in our community continue with 4-5 drops of Vitamin D3 each day, all year long.

Yes, you can probably get away with dropping the Vitamin D over the summer but the science is clear, this hormone like Vitamin does so many good things to our body that it’s likely better just to keep on taking it over the summer.

Our skin makes Vitamin D when we are exposed to the sun but with so many people avoiding the sun or sensitive to the sun, as Canadian’s, we’re likely not getting enough sun exposure to replenish what our longer winters and cloudy day’s take away.

vitamin D3 Lighthouse Chiropractic Kelowna Dr. Graham D. Jenkins Kelowna Chiropractor

The science is incredibly bad for people who are Vitamin D deficient, and incredibly encouraging for those of us who are taking daily Vitamin D.

**2019 Research Update

In a study on the link between Vitamin D deficiency with Multiple Sclerosis, researchers found little to no side effects in subjects taking 10,000 IU to 40,000 IU for up to 5 months.

Second installment wrap up

So that’s our second installment of the top 10 things people do in the summer to get and stay healthy.

What to do next?

And if you’re interested in really upgrading your health then give Lighthouse Chiropractic and Integrative Health in Kelowna a call.

I’m confident if you are looking for an accurate diagnosis, a team that puts your needs first, and won’t waste your time then you’ll be happy here.

The people that are attracted to Lighthouse understand that you need to invest in your health long term and are looking for doctors who are willing to build relationship on mutual trust and respect.

You can connect with us at [email protected] or call the office at (250) 870-9136. Let’s do our best to empty out the hospital!

Thanks and I’ll talk to you soon,

Dr. J

The top 10 things people do in the summer to get and stay healthier; Episode 1

Top 10 things people do to get and stay healthy in the summer

In Kelowna we are blessed with the unofficial nickname, California North, when it comes to our weather.

And this year is no exception. Now that we are through spring, our summer has been incredible.

There are some drawbacks to having some of the best weather in Canada. It attracts a lot of crowds so our city is bursting during the summer and many locals tend to lose their minds once the weather shifts.

People who are otherwise really dialed in when it comes to their health can start doing some really harmful things to their health and long term success.

stay focused in the summer on your health

So at the request of several of my patients I have decided to put together a top 10 list of what the healthiest people in our community do to stay healthy even when there are distractions all around.

Each blog is going to focus on at least 3 strategies that the most successful people do throughout the summer to ensure that they don’t arrive on Labor Day weekend beat up and exhausted from a free wheeling summer in the Okanagan.

I’m hoping that by reading these blogs you can help yourself and your health care providers ensure you are living a long and healthy life, and that the distractions of the summer don’t derail you.

So here goes, in classic David Letterman format, the top 10 things that successful people do in the summer to get and stay healthy.

#10 Go with the flow

Summer schedules change as quick as the weather. If a friend calls you to head out on the lake or hit the links, then take a minute and reschedule the things that you need to. If it’s a work out, a chiropractic adjustment, basically anything that keeps your health on track, don’t drop it just reschedule it for a different time that same day.

when your summer schedule changes, reschedule don't cancel

The same day is important because if you push it off there is a good chance it will get dropped.

#9 Stay connected to other people who are prioritizing their health

Summer is a great time to join a running group, hook up with a group of cyclists at a local bike shop or get in on an open water swim training group. The accountability to a weekly ride, run or swim goes a long way towards keeping you motivated.

You’ll not only meet some great people, make some new friends, it’s a great opportunity to fit something in during your week that you may not have time to do over the winter.

Here’s some suggestions that I have been involved with and would recommend wholeheartedly.

PACE Sports Fitness runs several excellent trail events each year and the coaching is incredible and super positive.

Rides and Runs with Fresh Air in Kelowna is a great start. By far the most encouraging group of cyclists I’ve seen is xelle cycling in Kelowna but sorry guys, this one is for ladies only.

There is also a weekly free 5k Park Run that is supported by Play Kelowna, the Running Room has running groups and even our local Mountain Equipment Co-op has fitness groups.

women working out together lighthouse

Even if you miss a couple of weeks because of holidays, I can guarantee you will do more than if you didn’t sign up for the group.

#8 Keep your nutrition simple

Summer is not the time to radically change your nutrition. Keep to the basics. Eating lean, clean protein, more vegetables than you think, and try to limit the grains. If ever there was a time to enjoy more vegetables, summer is it. We have an abundance of local produce that is showing up at local markets and stores.

Kelowna Farmers Market Lighthouse Chiropractic Dr. Graham D. Jenkins Kelowna Chiropractor

Be sure to take advantage of our Kelowna Farmer’s Market during the summer.

With the increase in outdoor meals and BBQ season, be diligent in lightly grilling some local produce to keep your veggie intake up. Not only will you feel better about your meal, you’ll be building some great habits for the fall. And everyone knows fresh local produce tastes way better than what we have to put up with in February. Take advantage of it while you can.

So there it is, volume 1 of our top 10 things successful people do in the summer to get and stay healthier. Stay tuned for number 7 through 5 in our next episode.

Thanks and I’ll talk to you soon,
Dr. J