Inflammation: What it is and how it affects your health

The word “inflammation” may induce thoughts of swollen joints or muscles, especially after injury – but, there is so much more to it than the general public is aware. Here, at Wicked Good, our goal is to help our clients better overall health and one of the best ways to do that is by reducing inflammation.

In this article, we will address what inflammation is, how it affects the body, possible negative effects of long-term inflammation and different ways to treat it.

To begin, let’s review what inflammation is, with a basic description: “Inflammation is part of the process by which the immune system defends the body from harmful agents.” [1]  It is the body’s natural way of defending itself against tissue damage, as well as viruses and bacteria – “It’s a defensive response… which dispatches white blood cells to the affected sites, resulting in redness and swelling.’ [2]

Sometimes, our bodies can mistakenly perceive normal cells and tissues as harmful, which can lead to chronic, long-term affects on our health over time. While acute inflammation is usually the result of recent injury, infection or trauma to a certain area of the body, chronic inflammation can continue for months or years, and may have links to various diseases, such as:

The symptoms will depend on the disease, but they may include pain and swelling. These issues can develop if someone has:

  • Sensitivity: Inflammation happens when the body senses something that should not be there. Hypersensitivity to an external trigger can result in an allergy.
  • Exposure: Sometimes, long-term, low-level exposure to an irritant, such as an industrial chemical, can result in chronic inflammation.
  • Autoimmune disorders: The immune system mistakenly attacks normal healthy tissue, as in psoriasis.
  • Autoinflammatory diseases: A genetic factor affects the way the immune system works, as in Behçet’s disease.
  • Persistent acute inflammation: In some cases, a person may not fully recover from acute inflammation. Sometimes, this can lead to chronic inflammation.

Factors that may increase the risk of chronic inflammation include:

Key Differences[4]:

AcuteChronic
CauseHarmful pathogens or tissue injury.Pathogens that the body cannot break down, including some types of viruses, foreign bodies that remain in the system, or overactive immune responses.
OnsetRapid.Slow.
DurationA few days.From months to years.
OutcomesInflammation improves, or an abscess develops or becomes chronic.Tissue death, thickening, and scarring of connective tissue.

Chiropractic Care As Part of A Healthy Lifestyle

            In addition to chiropractic and massage treatments, Wicked Good can help pinpoint causes of chronic inflammation and offer lifestyle changes – such as nutritional guidance and support – to help reduce future occurrences. Here are a few common changes we might recommend[5]:

  • Anti-Inflammatory Diet–A diet that consists of plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean meats and fish, and other nutrient-rich foods can help reduce chronic inflammation in the body. There are also many supplements that have been shown to prevent inflammation and promote bone, joint, and bodily health.
  • Regular Exercise–Treat your body right with regular exercise to maintain normal body functions and reduce inflammation. You should talk to your chiropractor about which exercises are best for your body and current health–such as choosing one activity over another is you have weak joints or areas of inflammation or pressure.
  • Weight Loss–If you are struggling with inflammation and are overweight or struggle with constant weight fluctuation, losing weight or maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can help prevent worsening inflammation.
  • Stress Reduction– Managing your stress level is a great way to promote relaxation and reduce inflammation. Yoga, meditating, reading, gardening, or doing other activities that you enjoy in order to create a stress-free environment.
  • Sleep Management– Getting enough sleep can help you handle day-to-day stressors more easily and promotes a healthy and effective immune system. From simple techniques to help you fall asleep to practicing better sleep habits and a regular schedule, getting enough rest is one of the best things you can do to improve your health and reduce the chance of developing health conditions associated with chronic inflammation.

Reducing the chance of developing chronic inflammation is an important step in regaining control of your health – take a balanced approach by including chiropractic care, good nutrition, stress relief and management techniques, regular exercise and a healthy sleep schedule.

Written by Dani Cameron, Nutritionist at Wicked Good Chiropractic

Resources:

  1. https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/how-inflammation-affects-your-health
  2. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/248423#causes
  3. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/248423#chronic-or-acute
  4. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/248423#chronic-or-acute
  5. https://www.rxwellness.net/how-chiropractic-care-can-help-with-inflammation/#:~:text=A%20chiropractor%20can%20provide%20manual,which%20can%20help%20reduce%20inflammation.
/by
, , , , , , ,

Embark on Your Spring Wellness Journey: Meet Rebecca and Dani – The Wicked Good Nutrition Team

Weight loss women with tape

As the blossoms of spring signal a time of renewal, it’s the perfect moment to embark on a transformative wellness journey with ChiroTHIN. Our dedicated nutrition team, comprising the dynamic duo Rebecca and Dani, is ready to guide you towards sustainable weight management and overall health.

Rebecca and Dani are passionate about empowering individuals like you to make positive and lasting changes to your lifestyle. By scheduling a personalized meeting with them, you open the door to a wealth of nutritional expertise tailored to your unique needs and goals. This isn’t just about shedding pounds; it’s about cultivating a healthier, more vibrant you.

Why meet with Rebecca and Dani? Their combined knowledge and experience create a dynamic synergy, ensuring that your nutrition plan aligns seamlessly with your aspirations. They are not just here to provide guidance; they’re here to be your partners in this transformative journey. Imagine having a team dedicated to crafting a plan that not only helps you achieve your weight management goals but also fosters long-term well-being.

Why lose weight? Top 3 reasons to lose those extra pounds–

  1. Heart Health: Shedding excess weight significantly reduces the strain on your heart and lowers the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Carrying extra pounds can lead to high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol levels, and an increased likelihood of developing conditions such as heart disease and stroke. Losing weight through a combination of healthy eating and regular physical activity supports a stronger, more efficient cardiovascular system, promoting overall heart health and reducing the risk of life-threatening complications.
  2. Type 2 Diabetes Prevention and Management: Weight loss plays a crucial role in preventing the onset of type 2 diabetes and managing the condition for those already diagnosed. Excess body weight is a major risk factor for insulin resistance, a precursor to diabetes. By achieving and maintaining a healthy weight, individuals can enhance their body’s ability to regulate blood sugar levels, potentially preventing the development of type 2 diabetes or better managing the condition for those already affected. Lifestyle changes, including weight loss, are often recommended as part of diabetes prevention and management plans.
  3. Improved Joint Health and Mobility: Carrying excess weight puts additional stress on the joints, particularly those in the knees, hips, and lower back. This increased strain can lead to conditions such as osteoarthritis, causing pain, inflammation, and reduced mobility. Weight loss can alleviate this burden on the joints, providing relief and preventing further deterioration. By achieving a healthier weight, individuals can experience improved joint function, reduced pain, and increased mobility, contributing to a better quality of life and the ability to engage in more physical activities.

Spring is the season of growth, and what better time to cultivate positive change in your life? Schedule a meeting with Rebecca and Dani to dive into the benefits of ChiroTHIN. Discover a personalized approach to nutrition that embraces the abundance of fresh, seasonal foods, and set the stage for a healthier, more energetic future.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to revitalize your health and well-being. Call now 508.339.1418 to schedule your meeting with Rebecca and Dani, and take that exciting first step towards a spring filled with renewed vitality and a transformed you. Your journey to wellness begins with a conversation – let Rebecca and Dani be your guides!

/by
, ,

What are the top 5 things for better sleep


There are several things you can do to improve your sleep quality. Here are the top 5:

5 Tips for Better Sleep:

1. Stick to a Consistent Sleep Schedule: Even the most luxurious mattress can’t replace the importance of a consistent sleep schedule. Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day helps regulate your body’s internal clock, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up refreshed.

2. Establish a Relaxing Bedtime Routine: Enhance your sleep environment by creating a calming bedtime routine. Whether it’s reading a book, taking a warm bath, or practicing relaxation techniques, these activities signal to your body that it’s time to wind down.

3. Optimize Your Sleep Environment: Make your bedroom a sanctuary for sleep. Keep it cool, dark, and quiet. Invest in comfortable bedding, and ensure your Saatva mattress is on a sturdy and supportive bed frame for the best sleep experience.

4. Minimize Stimulating Activities Before Bed: Avoid stimulants like caffeine and nicotine close to bedtime. Additionally, reduce screen time before sleep as the blue light emitted by devices can interfere with melatonin production, a hormone crucial for sleep.

5. Prioritize Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity is a natural remedy for better sleep. Engage in activities you enjoy, but try to finish exercising a few hours before bedtime to allow your body to wind down.

Choose a better mattress

In our fast-paced world, a good night’s sleep is a luxury that many of us crave. The foundation of a restful night lies not only in healthy sleep habits but also in the quality of our sleep environment, including the mattress we choose. Saatva, a renowned luxury mattress brand, takes center stage in creating an optimal sleep experience. In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of the Saatva mattress and complement these with five essential tips for achieving a truly rejuvenating night’s sleep.

The Saatva Mattress Advantage:

1. Unparalleled Comfort: Saatva mattresses are crafted with precision and attention to detail, incorporating multiple layers of premium materials. The use of eco-friendly, high-quality materials like organic cotton and memory foam ensures a plush, yet supportive, sleeping surface. This thoughtful design provides a cloud-like feel, cradling your body for the utmost comfort.

2. Superior Support: A key feature of Saatva mattresses is their advanced support system. The individually wrapped coils provide targeted support to different areas of your body, promoting proper spinal alignment. This feature is especially beneficial for those who suffer from back pain or other orthopedic issues, as it helps reduce pressure points.

3. Eco-Friendly Materials: Saatva is committed to sustainability. Their mattresses are crafted using eco-friendly materials, including organic cotton and CertiPUR-US® certified foams. This dedication to environmental responsibility not only contributes to a healthier planet but also ensures that you’re not exposed to harmful chemicals while you sleep.

4. Customizable Options: Recognizing that individual sleep preferences vary, Saatva offers a range of mattress options. Whether you prefer the classic innerspring feel, the contouring support of memory foam, or a hybrid design, Saatva has a mattress tailored to your preferences.

5. White Glove Delivery: Saatva takes the hassle out of mattress delivery with their white glove service. The mattress is not compressed into a box; instead, it is hand-delivered and set up in your bedroom. This ensures that your mattress is ready for use immediately, without the need for off-gassing or waiting for it to expand.

In conclusion, achieving a truly restful night’s sleep involves a holistic approach, combining the superior comfort of a Saatva mattress with healthy sleep habits. By investing in a quality mattress and incorporating these tips into your routine, you’re on the path to a more rejuvenating and fulfilling sleep experience. Prioritize your sleep, and let the Saatva mattress be the cornerstone of your journey to better rest.

/by
, , , ,

Treating Symptoms Versus Treating the Person

In the dominant health care model today, medication is used to get rid of people’s symptoms. If the patient stops taking the medication, symptoms generally return.
Functional Medicine approaches health problems differently. Instead of masking the problem, it aims at restoring the body’s natural functioning. Although Functional Medicine practitioners may prescribe pharmaceuticals, they are used to gently nudge the patient’s physiology in a positive direction so the patient will no longer need them.

For example, conventional doctors would normally prescribe pharmaceuticals like Prilosec, Prevacid or Aciphex to treat acid reflux or heartburn. When the patient stops taking such drugs, the heartburn symptoms come back. In contrast, a Functional Medicine practitioner might find that a patient’s acid reflux is caused by Helicobacter pylori bacteria. Eradicating the Helicobacter pylori might very well lead to the end of heartburn symptoms, permanently.

It’s also important to note that in Functional Medicine, treatment for similar symptoms might vary tremendously for different patients, according to their medical history and results of laboratory tests. Factors that can come into play in producing the same symptoms include toxic chemicals, pathogenic bacteria, parasites, chronic viral pathogens, emotional poisons like anger, greed or envy, and structural factors such as tumors or cysts.

The Roots of Functional Medicine

Sir William OslerYou may be surprised to learn that Functional Medicine isn’t new. It actually represents a return to the roots of modern scientific medicine, captured in this statement by Sir William Osler, one of the first professors at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and later its Physician-in-Chief: “The good physician treats the disease; the great physician treats the patient who has the disease.”
Another important saying by Osler is “If you listen carefully to the patient, they will tell you the diagnosis.” This encapsulates the importance placed in Functional Medicine on taking a thorough history from the patient.

The preceding was written by Dr. Ron Grisanti of www.functionalmedicine.net

/by