Researching Chiropractic: Migraines, Neck Pain, Cervical Radiculopathy

Chiropractic clinical case histories have been a regular feature of our patient newsletter since its inception. There seems to be no limit to the health problems that respond positively to chiropractic care. How many people suffering, reliant on medication and drugs, and facing a life of limitation could be helped by chiropractic care?

Probably most of them.

A 42-year-old male presented with chronic migraines and neck pain

Conditions he associated with poor posture. After undergoing chiropractic care, he reported significant improvements in both migraine frequency and neck discomfort. The treatment focused on spinal adjustments aimed at correcting postural misalignments, particularly forward head posture, which is often linked to chronic headaches. This case underscores the potential effectiveness of chiropractic interventions in addressing posture-related headache disorders. (1)

Cervical Radiculopathy

A 61-year-old man with right-sided neck pain and arm numbness was diagnosed with cervical radiculopathy, confirmed by MRI showing a C5-C6 disc herniation. He received chiropractic care, including cervical adjustments and therapeutic exercises, over a 12-week period. The treatment resulted in significant pain relief, improved mobility, and restored limb strength, demonstrating the effectiveness of chiropractic care in managing cervical radiculopathy.  (2)

Do you know someone with any of these issues?

Please encourage them to make an appointment with us!

(517) 627-4547

  1. Hassan F, Postlethwaite R, McIvor C. Improvement in migraines and chronic neck pain in a 42-year-old male under chiropractic care: A Case Report. Asia-Pacific Chiropractic Journal. 2021
  2. Kumar N, Krishna S, Shenoy R. BMJ Case Rep. 2014;2014:bcr2013200546. doi:10.1136/bcr-2013-200546

Feed Your Brain, Fight the Fire

Your brain isn’t just along for the ride. It depends on what you eat, just as much as your muscles and joints do. If you’ve ever felt foggy after a sugar-heavy snack or struggled to focus during a fast-food slump, you’ve already experienced the brain-food connection firsthand. The good news? Swapping out inflammation-triggering foods for brain-loving alternatives can make a real difference.

Everyday Brain-Boosting Foods

Omega-3 fats are some of your best allies here. Found in wild-caught salmon, sardines, and walnuts, they help keep brain cells working smoothly. They also help alleviate inflammation, which has been linked to cognitive issues such as memory loss and brain fatigue. Add a few servings a week, and you’ll likely notice more clarity and better mood stability.

Turmeric is another simple upgrade. You can stir it into scrambled eggs, blend it into smoothies, or sprinkle it onto roasted vegetables. The active ingredient, curcumin, has been shown to support memory and reduce brain inflammation [1].

Berries belong in your regular rotation, too. Blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries are rich in antioxidants that help protect your brain from oxidative stress. That’s science-speak for cellular wear and tear that messes with how your brain communicates. A handful of your morning oatmeal or mixed into a salad works wonders.

One easy win? Start your day with a brain-boosting smoothie: 1 cup of unsweetened almond milk, ½ banana, a handful of spinach, one tablespoon of ground flaxseed, ¼ cup of blueberries, and a pinch of turmeric. Blend and sip. Your brain will thank you.

What to Avoid (and What to Add)

Leafy greens like kale and chard? They’re loaded with folate and vitamin K, which have been linked to slower mental decline. Avocados provide healthy fats and vitamin E, both of which are known to support focus and memory.

Be cautious of foods that contribute to brain fog, including refined sugar, processed carbs, seed oils, and artificial additives. These spikes can cause inflammation and may disrupt your neurotransmitters, the chemical messengers your brain needs to function clearly and feel balanced.

Keeping your gut happy helps your brain, too. Your gut and brain are more closely connected than most people realize. Try adding fermented foods, such as sauerkraut or plain yogurt with live cultures, to your meals for a healthy boost. They boost your microbiome, which plays a surprising role in mental clarity.

The best part of eating this way? You’re not following a strict plan or giving up everything you love. You’re just giving your brain the fuel it prefers.

  1. Small, G.W., Siddarth, P., & Merrill, D.A. (2020). Memory and Brain Amyloid and Tau Effects of a Bioavailable Form of Curcumin in Non-Demented Adults: A Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled 18-Month Trial. American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry, 26(3), 266-277. 

Sciatica and Lower Back Pain Relief: A Hands-On Approach

When Pain Takes Over Daily Life

It started with a twinge-just a nagging ache after sitting too long. Then came the shooting pain down the leg, the numb toes, the sleepless nights trying to find a position that didn’t feel like a jolt of electricity. This is how sciatica creeps in for many people, often paired with relentless lower back pain that disrupts even the most basic daily routines.

This type of discomfort is one of the top reasons people walk into a chiropractor’s office. It’s not just a sore back-it’s pain that radiates, tightens, and limits movement. Sometimes it begins after lifting something heavy or twisting the wrong way. At other times, it develops slowly, often associated with poor posture or prolonged periods spent sitting at a desk. Either way, the nerves are irritated, and the body doesn’t let you forget it.

How Chiropractic Adjustments Help

Chiropractic care addresses this issue by focusing on the structure of the spine. When the vertebrae are misaligned or joints aren’t moving the way they should, nearby nerves, like the sciatic nerve, can get pinched or inflamed. Through specific spinal adjustments, chiropractors help restore natural alignment and mobility, which can alleviate pressure on the nerves and ease pain.

For many patients, this means more than just relief; it means getting back to walking the dog, gardening, working, or simply being able to tie their shoes without wincing. In some cases, people notice changes after the first visit, while others experience steady improvement over several sessions. What matters most is that the body is given the opportunity to heal without drugs or invasive procedures.

One patient, a 42-year-old graphic designer, had tried everything from heat packs to over-the-counter pills. Nothing worked until he visited a chiropractor who specialized in gentle adjustments and guided him through simple stretches. “I thought I’d have to live with this forever,” he said. “I was shocked how quickly things started to turn around.”

Chiropractors may also recommend exercises, posture tips, or ergonomic adjustments for use at home or in the workplace. These small shifts can make a big difference in preventing future flare-ups. The goal isn’t just to ease the current pain but to help the body stay strong and aligned moving forward.

It’s worth noting that clinical studies support this hands-on care. A review in the European Spine Journal found that spinal manipulation was more effective than exercise alone or medical care for sciatica relief and improving function [1].

No one should have to tough it out or mask the pain with temporary fixes. With the right chiropractic care, lasting relief is possible-and life doesn’t have to be lived from the sidelines.

  1. Santilli V, Beghi E, Finucci S. Chiropractic manipulation in the treatment of acute back pain and sciatica with disc protrusion: a randomized double-blind clinical trial of active and simulated spinal manipulations. Eur Spine J. 2006;15(9):1340-1348.

Breathe Easier: How Chiropractic Can Help Open the Chest and Lungs

When Breathing Feels Restricted

Years ago, a woman named Carol went into a chiropractic office with persistent shortness of breath. She didn’t have a lung infection or a diagnosis of asthma, but breathing deeply made her chest ache. Her posture was slouched, her shoulders pulled forward, and her upper back was stiff. When she inhaled, it looked like her rib cage barely moved. After a few visits focusing on the upper thoracic spine and rib joints, her breathing began to ease. She noticed that she could take fuller breaths, her neck tension had lessened, and her energy had improved.

The Spine-Rib Connection to Lung Function

Most people think about lungs and airways when they hear “breathing trouble.” However, the ability to breathe deeply also depends significantly on posture and the flexibility of the spine and rib cage. The lungs can only expand as far as the rib cage allows. When the mid and upper back get locked up-often from too much sitting, stress, or injury-the rib cage stiffens, making each breath shallow.

Nervous System Involvement

The diaphragm, your primary breathing muscle, also relies on the spine to function properly. The nerve that powers the diaphragm (the phrenic nerve) travels from the neck to the chest. Tension and restrictions in the neck and upper back can impede this pathway, resulting in inefficient breathing patterns.

Releasing Tension and Improving Posture

Asthma, anxiety, and chronic stress often show up as tight chests, elevated shoulders, and shallow, rapid breathing. People don’t always realize how much tension they’re holding in their ribs and back until it’s released. Chiropractic adjustments aim to restore normal motion in the spine and ribs that have become restricted. Once the joints start moving again, posture improves naturally, the chest opens up, and breathing often feels easier and more relaxed.

Better Breathing, Better Living

Improved breathing isn’t just about comfort. Better airflow means more oxygen to the brain and body, supporting mental clarity, digestion, sleep, and even mood. People often report feeling lighter, calmer, and more alert after having their upper spine and rib cage adjusted.

One study found that spinal adjustments in the thoracic region improved lung function in healthy young adults, suggesting that mechanical changes in the spine and the removal of interferences can have a measurable impact on respiratory performance (1).

Not every breathing issue is caused by spinal tension, but for many, unlocking the thoracic spine and improving posture helps restore natural, deep breathing. People are often surprised by how much better they feel when they can finally take a full breath again.

Call us today to make an appointment and breathe easier! 

(517) 627-4547

  1. Kong, Y.S., Song, Y.K., & Shin, W.S. (2013). Changes in pulmonary function after thoracic spine mobilization and manipulation in healthy young adults. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 25(4), 425-427.

Researching Chiropractic: Back & Pelvic Pain, Muscle Weakness

Chiropractic clinical case histories have been a regular feature of our patient newsletter since its inception. There seems to be no limit to the health problems that respond positively to chiropractic care. How many people suffering, reliant on medication and drugs, and facing a life of limitation could be helped by chiropractic care? 

Probably most of them.

sinus infections

Back & Pelvic Pain During Pregnancy

A 35-year-old pregnant woman developed back and pelvic pain in the later stages of her pregnancy. The pain was strong enough to interfere with her sleep and daily activities. Rather than taking medication (which can be risky during pregnancy), she visited a chiropractor. She received gentle spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and simple home exercises designed for pregnancy. She was also given tips for better posture and movement during her day.

After six weeks of care, the pain dropped dramatically, and she was able to sleep better and move more comfortably. This case highlighted that chiropractic care can be a safe and natural option for pregnant women dealing with back or pelvic pain.(1)

Muscle Weakness

A 35-year-old woman with a rare condition that causes muscle weakness (called spinal muscular atrophy) was suffering from painful jaw problems that made it hard to eat and speak. Because her body was already physically weak, regular medical or dental treatments weren’t ideal.

She went to a chiropractor, who used gentle hands-on treatments, soft tissue work (like massage), and specific exercises to help relax and strengthen the muscles around her jaw.

After a short course of care, her jaw pain got much better and her ability to open and move her mouth improved. This case showed that even people with complicated health issues can benefit from personalized, gentle chiropractic care.(2)

Do you know someone with any of these issues?

Please encourage them to make an appointment with us!

(517) 627-4547

 

  1. Bernard, M.N., & Kirk, J.A. (2016). Chiropractic management of pregnancy-related lumbopelvic pain: a case study. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 15(2), 129-133
  2. Visscher, C.M., & Lobbezoo, F. (2009). Conservative care of temporomandibular joint disorder in a 35-year-old patient with spinal muscular atrophy type III: a case study. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 8(4), 187-192.

Eating with the Seasons: Nourishing Spring Foods

As the earth awakens from winter, spring brings fresh vitality not only to the soil but to our bodies. According to the teachings of Dr. Weston A. Price, traditional cultures thrived by eating seasonally-honoring the cycles of nature and consuming nutrient-dense foods available at the time. In spring, this means embracing lighter, cleansing foods while still ensuring we receive the fats and minerals needed for deep nourishment.

Spring is the perfect time to incorporate leafy greens like dandelion, nettles, watercress, and arugula into the diet. These bitter greens stimulate the liver and aid detoxification after a heavier winter diet. Traditional diets often included wild spring greens as tonics, and modern nutritional research supports their richness in chlorophyll, magnesium, and antioxidants. Lightly steaming or sautéing them in butter or ghee-a traditional fat praised by Dr. Price-enhances the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K (1).

Pasture-raised eggs, another springtime staple, are particularly nutrient-rich this time of year as hens begin laying more frequently. Eggs from chickens allowed to forage on spring grasses contain higher levels of omega-3s and fat-soluble vitamins. Raw or cultured dairy products from grass-fed cows also reflect seasonal improvements in nutrition and can provide beneficial probiotics when fermented.

Lamb is a classic spring meat, traditionally consumed in many cultures during this season. It is a rich source of heme iron, zinc, and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), especially when the animals graze on fresh pasture. Bone broth from lamb or poultry is also supportive to the digestive system as the body transitions to lighter fare.

Finally, sprouted grains and legumes are more digestible and nutrient-available than their unsprouted counterparts and were traditionally soaked or fermented before consumption. This mimics natural springtime germination and is in line with the wisdom Price documented from indigenous diets (1).

By following the rhythms of nature and embracing seasonal foods, we align our diets with traditional wisdom and modern nutritional science. Spring invites us to lighten up without losing the deep nourishment our ancestors prized.

4.Fallon, S., & Enig, M.G. (1999). Nourishing Traditions: The Cookbook that Challenges Politically Correct Nutrition and the Diet Dictocrats. Washington, D.C.: NewTrends Publishing.

How Chiropractic Care Affects Digestion, Immunity, and Hormones

Most people don’t think about their spine when dealing with digestive issues, fatigue, or hormone imbalances. But the spine does far more than support the body’s structure-it’s the main channel through which the nervous system sends signals. When that communication breaks down, a range of problems can appear: slowed digestion, weakened immune response, and hormone irregularities.

One patient-a young woman-originally came in for back discomfort. Over time, without changing her diet or routine, she noticed her digestion improved. Bloating disappeared, stomach aches subsided, and she felt more energetic. The only shift in her life was regular chiropractic adjustments. Her experience reflects what many have found: when nervous system function is restored, the body begins to regulate itself more efficiently.

The nervous system influences everything from intestinal movement to immune system readiness to hormone release. Spinal misalignments, known in chiropractic as subluxations, can interfere with these vital signals. They don’t always cause pain but disrupt how the body works. With gentle adjustments, chiropractors aim to restore that flow, allowing the body to function as intended. (1)

Another example involved a father of three who constantly battled colds and sinus congestion. After a few months of chiropractic care, he noticed he wasn’t getting sick-even when his kids brought home the usual school-time bugs. His immune system seemed to be working more effectively. That shift wasn’t about boosting anything artificially but clearing the nervous system so it could do its job without interference.

Hormonal changes are often mentioned, too. Some women report a more regular menstrual cycle after beginning care. Others say they sleep better, feel calmer, or experience more emotional balance. These aren’t promises-they’re observations from people who notice what happens when their bodies start communicating better.

People often come in expecting one thing to improve and are surprised when something else shifts, too. It’s not a coincidence. The body is connected in ways that aren’t always obvious, and removing pressure from the nervous system can have a ripple effect on digestion, immunity, and hormone balance.

The body is built to heal and self-regulate. Chiropractic care doesn’t add anything new to the system; it simply helps remove what’s getting in the way.

Want to Experience Healing in Real Life?

Call us to make an appointment. We’d love to see you! 517.627.4547

  1. Kent, C. (1996). Models of vertebral subluxation: A review. Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research, 1(1), 1-7.

Why Every Pregnant Woman Should See a Chiropractor

During pregnancy, many women have trouble sleeping, pressure in the hips, and occasional sciatica that can make everyday movement uncomfortable. Some discover that visiting a chiropractor brings significant relief. One mother described how, after a few visits, her body felt more balanced, her discomfort eased, and her sleep improved. She noticed she could breathe more deeply and move more freely, even late in the third trimester.

As the baby grows, posture shifts, ligaments loosen, and the spine compensates. These changes are part of the body’s natural preparation for birth, but they can also create stress in the spine and nervous system. Chiropractic adjustments help reduce that stress, allowing the body to adapt more comfortably.

Pregnant women often report feeling more centered and stable after an adjustment. Many say their hips feel better aligned, and their belly carries more evenly. Others notice improved sleep, fewer aches, and a stronger sense of connection to their changing bodies. Rather than focusing only on relief from discomfort, chiropractic care supports the body’s ability to function well throughout pregnancy.

A key benefit is the support chiropractic provides to the nervous system. The spine protects the communication pathways between the brain and the body. The function can be affected when these pathways are irritated or under pressure. By gently adjusting the spine, chiropractors help restore proper communication, which may improve digestion, energy levels, and overall ease.

Some women also find that regular care encourages better fetal positioning. One mother shared that her baby had settled heavily on one side in her third trimester. After a few targeted adjustments, the baby shifted and remained more balanced. She described the change as feeling “lighter,” as if her body had made space where needed.

Research supports these experiences. A 2007 review published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that chiropractic care during pregnancy may reduce back pain, improve overall comfort, and even lessen the need for pain medications during labor (1).

Chiropractic care during pregnancy isn’t only about addressing discomfort-it’s about helping the body work the way it was designed to. As the body makes room for new life, chiropractic can support that process by keeping the spine and nervous system clear and responsive.

Every pregnant woman deserves to feel strong, supported, and in tune with her body. Gentle, thoughtful adjustments can make a meaningful difference in how a woman experiences her pregnancy and prepares for birth. For many, that difference is not just physical but deeply reassuring.

Make an Appoinment today!

Call us to make an appointment. We’d love to see you! 517.627.4547

  1. Borggren, C. L. (2007). Pregnancy and chiropractic: a narrative review of the literature. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 30(6), 447-453.

Common Myths About Chiropractic: Separating Fact from Fiction

When people think of chiropractic, they often picture loud cracks, twisted bodies, and quick fixes for back pain. These images, shaped by movies, television, and secondhand stories, tend to miss the mark. Many of the most common beliefs about chiropractic care are based on outdated assumptions or misunderstandings that don’t reflect the real experience.

Myths About Chiropractic

One widespread belief is that chiropractic is only useful for back pain. While many find relief in that area, chiropractic care focuses on how the spine affects the nervous system. When the spine is misaligned or not moving well, it can interfere with how nerves communicate with the rest of the body. That interference can show up in many ways-poor sleep, low energy, digestive issues, or trouble focusing. Many patients have shared that after starting care, they noticed unexpected improvements beyond what they originally came in for. Chiropractic doesn’t cure or treat specific conditions-it helps the body work better.

Safety is another area where myths often take hold. A common concern is spinal adjustments, especially to the neck, are dangerous. It’s an understandable fear, especially when stories are shared without context. However, research shows the risk of serious complications from a chiropractic neck adjustment is extremely low. According to the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, the risk is about the same as having one’s hair washed at a salon.(1) Most people find adjustments to be gentle, precise, and relieving.

Then there’s the idea that chiropractic is “cracking backs.” This oversimplifies a highly skilled and thoughtful process. Chiropractors use a wide range of techniques. Some involve a quick, light thrust; others use hand-held instruments; still others include positioning the body in a way that allows natural correction. The goal is not force-it’s precision. A good chiropractor observes subtle patterns, listens to the body, and adjusts with intent to reduce nerve interference so the body can respond more efficiently.

Another common myth is that once someone starts seeing a chiropractor, they’re locked in for life. People often hear this and assume it’s a sales tactic. The truth is that ongoing care is entirely voluntary. Many people choose to continue because they feel a difference in their daily lives-more energy, less stiffness, better digestion, or improved mood. Just like regular exercise or healthy eating, chiropractic care is something people often want to keep up with because it helps them feel and function.

Some also question whether chiropractors are “real” doctors. The answer is yes-they are trained extensively in anatomy, physiology, neurology, radiology, and diagnosis. Chiropractic education includes thousands of classroom and clinical hours, plus national board exams. While their approach differs from medical doctors, their education is demanding and science-based.

Many people who once believed these myths had changed their minds after experiencing care themselves. They come in uncertain and leave feeling more connected to their bodies. It’s often not about what gets fixed but how much better life starts to feel when the nervous system can do its job.

Want to Experience Healing in Real Life?

Call us to make an appointment. We’d love to see you! 517.627.4547

 

  1. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, Volume 25, Issue 8, 2002, Pages 501-506. 

Researching Chiropractic: Severe low back pain and Colds and Sinus Infections

Chiropractic clinical case histories have been a regular feature of our patient newsletter since its inception. There seems to be no limit to the health problems that respond positively to chiropractic care. How many people suffering, reliant on medication and drugs, and facing a life of limitation could be helped by chiropractic care? 

Probably most of them.

sinus infections

Severe Low Back Pain 

Linda, a 55-year-old schoolteacher, struggled with severe low back pain that made it difficult to stand in front of her class. Painkillers provided little relief, and her orthopedic doctor suggested surgery.

Looking for alternatives, she tried chiropractic care. Her chiropractor discovered a pelvic misalignment, likely from years of poor posture. After just a few sessions, Linda felt significant relief, and after three months of treatment, she was able to teach pain-free for the first time in years. She even canceled her surgery, making her skeptical orthopedic surgeon admit, “Whatever you’re doing, it’s working.” (1)

Frequent Colds and Sinus Infections

Tom, a 35-year-old firefighter, frequently battled colds and sinus infections due to his demanding job. Skeptical but willing, he joined a chiropractic study. After months of adjustments, he noticed fewer illnesses, milder allergies, and more energy. One night, after a major fire, he realized he hadn’t been sick in months. Lab tests confirmed improved immune markers, reinforcing his belief in chiropractic care’s benefits. (2)

Do you know someone with any of these issues?

Please encourage them to make an appointment with us!

(517) 627-4547

  1. Haavik, H., Niazi, I. K., Amjad, I., Kumari, N., Ghani, U., Ashfaque, M., Rashid, U., Navid, M. S., Kamavuako, E. N., Pujari, A. N., & Holt, K. (2024). Neuroplastic Responses to Chiropractic Care: Broad Impacts on Pain, Mood, Sleep, and Quality of Life. Brain Sciences, 14(11), 1124. https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci14111124
  2. Schalow, P. R., Mayer-Hunt, J., & Alcantara, J. (2023). Observation of Changes in Secretory Immunoglobulin A (SIgA) after Upper Cervical Adjusting Techniques. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine. https://www.chiropractic.org/new-study-unveils-relationship-between-chiropractic-care-and-immune-response/